The Seattle Mariners are shaking things up in the dugout for the 2025 season. In a surprising move, the team has brought back a familiar face to serve as bench coach under new manager Dan Wilson.
Manny Acta Returns to Seattle
Manny Acta, who previously served as the Mariners’ bench coach from 2018 to 2019 and third base coach from 2016 to 2017 and again from 2020 through 2024, will once again don the Seattle uniform. Acta brings a wealth of experience to the role, having managed the Cleveland Guardians from 2010 to 2012 and the Washington Nationals from 2007 to 2009.
Manny’s knowledge of the game and ability to connect with players make him an invaluable asset to our coaching staff.
– Dan Wilson, Mariners Manager
A New Era in Seattle
The return of Acta is just one of many changes for the Mariners heading into the new season. Former manager Scott Servais was fired on August 23, with Wilson taking over the reins. Wilson, a beloved former Mariners catcher, has been tasked with turning around a team that has struggled to live up to expectations in recent years.
Other notable changes to the coaching staff include:
- Edgar Martinez moving from hitting coach to senior director of hitting strategy
- Kevin Seitzer hired as new hitting coach, coming over from the Atlanta Braves
- Bobby Magallanes hired as assistant hitting coach, also from the Braves
- Kristopher Negrón promoted from first base coach to third base coach
- Eric Young Jr. promoted from baserunning coordinator to first base coach
A Blend of Old and New
While the Mariners have brought in some fresh faces, they’ve also retained several key members of the coaching staff. Pitching coach Pete Woodworth, bullpen coach Tony Arnerich, director of pitching strategy Trent Blank, assistant pitching coach Danny Farquhar, and infield coach Perry Hill will all be back in Seattle for the 2025 campaign.
The mix of familiar faces and new blood has fans cautiously optimistic about the team’s chances in the upcoming season. After years of mediocrity, the Mariners are hoping that this revamped coaching staff can finally help the team live up to its potential and compete for a playoff spot in the tough American League West.
Acta’s Impact
As bench coach, Acta will play a crucial role in helping Wilson manage the game from the dugout. His experience as a major league skipper should prove invaluable, particularly for a first-time manager like Wilson.
I’m excited to work with Dan and help him navigate the challenges of managing at the big league level. We have a talented group of players here, and I believe we can do something special.
– Manny Acta, Mariners Bench Coach
Acta’s ability to connect with players from diverse backgrounds and his knack for in-game strategy have earned him respect throughout the league. His presence in the dugout should help create a positive, winning culture in Seattle.
A Proving Ground
For Wilson, the 2025 season represents a huge opportunity to prove himself as a manager. The former catcher was a fan favorite during his playing days in Seattle, but he’ll need to show that he can translate that popularity into on-field success.
With a revamped coaching staff and a roster full of young talent, the pressure will be on Wilson to deliver results. If he can guide the Mariners to the postseason, it would go a long way toward cementing his status as one of the game’s top young managers.
The Road Ahead
As the Mariners prepare for the upcoming season, there’s a sense of cautious optimism around the team. With a new manager, a revamped coaching staff, and a core of talented young players, the pieces seem to be in place for a successful campaign.
However, the American League West is one of the toughest divisions in baseball, with perennial powerhouses like the Houston Astros and Oakland Athletics always in the mix. The Mariners will need to hit the ground running if they hope to keep pace in the playoff race.
Regardless of how the season plays out, one thing is clear: with Manny Acta back in the fold and Dan Wilson at the helm, the Seattle Mariners will be a team to watch in 2025. Fans in the Emerald City are hoping that this new era of Mariners baseball will finally bring the success they’ve been craving for so long.
