PEORIA, Ariz. — When Donovan Solano finally made it to the Mariners’ spring training complex, about a week later than expected due to visa issues, he immediately sought out familiar faces from his past seasons with the Miami Marlins. But instead of looking for former teammates, he headed straight for infield coach Perry Hill.
Solano shared a heartfelt embrace with Hill, who had played a key role in his development during his early MLB years. After spending six seasons in the Cardinals’ farm system without breaking into the majors, Solano signed a minor-league deal with the Marlins ahead of the 2012 season, hoping to secure a spot as a utility player.
It was Hill’s coaching during that spring training that helped Solano make his MLB debut, and he later spent parts of four seasons with the Marlins, earning the team’s defensive player of the year award in 2013 as a second baseman.
“He’s one of my best coaches ever,” Solano said. “He still loves baseball like everybody here. He’s here for him, but more for the players and everyone else. I’m happy to be a part of the same team with him.”
As he prepares for the 2025 season, Solano is excited to work with Hill again, particularly on improving his defense at first base, which could be his primary position with the Mariners.
Despite being 5-foot-9, Solano is focused on improving his ability to scoop balls in the dirt and increase his range at first. “He’s the chief here and I’m ready to work,” Solano said.
Solano also ran into his former Marlins teammate, Ichiro Suzuki, who was stretching and getting ready for a day of workouts with the players. The two had played together for part of the 2015 season, and Solano was in awe of Ichiro’s dedication to the game, especially considering his age at the time (41).
Solano recalls how Ichiro’s commitment to his daily routine impressed him: “Even if nobody showed up to the stadium and he was the only one, he still practiced like everybody’s there. No matter what, he put in 100 percent.”
Now at 37, Solano hopes to provide a similar example to the younger players around him. He remembers how veterans like Jose Reyes, Placido Polanco, and Hanley Ramirez helped him early in his career, and he is eager to offer advice on everything. Solano also envisions himself taking on a mentorship or coaching role after his playing days are over.
“I love that,” he said. “Maybe after retirement. I think it’s gonna be my goal — helping people. I can’t stop thinking when you see young people with a lot of talent but they don’t know how to deal with a lot of things. I love that.”
The Mariners are counting on Solano to be a steady contributor at the plate, whether it’s platooning at first base, filling in at third, or starting as the designated hitter. Solano, who signed a one-year deal with Seattle last month, had a solid season with the San Diego Padres in 2024, posting a .286/.343/.417 slash line with 13 doubles, eight homers, 35 RBIs, and 22 walks in 96 games.
Given his delayed arrival, Solano said he will need around 5-7 days of workouts before he’s ready for Cactus League games. “It’s communication,” said manager Dan Wilson. “He’s anxious to get started too. He’s ready to get going. I don’t anticipate it being too long. He’s a professional. He knows what it takes to get ready.”
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