With the start of the 2015-16 MLB season things are looking bright for the revamped Seattle Mariners baseball squad. Coming off their best season since 2003 the Mariners made some key moves in the free-agency market to give their batting lineup a veteran presence and a serious upgrade in power hitting. Here are four reasons why the Mariners will make the postseason this year.
1. Nelson Cruz- Coming off a record setting 45 home run year, the Mariners acquired Cruz via the free-agency market. He brings power to the batting lineup that Seattle has never had, and should make a major impact in every game he plays in.

2. Bullpen- Great starters are certainly helpful, but teams need a good bullpen so that the lead can be protected. This season, the Mariners have that bullpen. Headlined by solid relief man, Joe Biemel, the Mariners bullpen should continue their success from the 2014-2015 season.

3. The King- Long live Felix Hernandez. The Mariners’ ace continues to impress finishing second last year in the AL Cy Young award voting and boasting a career best 2.14 era. Hernandez should continue his dominant pitching and be one of the leagues best for years to come.

4. Mariners are Due- It’s been a long time since the Ms made the playoffs and it just seems like this is the year. The last time was in 2001 when they lost to the New York Yankees 1-4 in the AL Championship Series.