Dan Wilson announces departure as Seattle Mariners manager

<p>Seattle Mariners manager Dan Wilson announced on Sunday that he will not return for the 2027 season. He informed his team and the media before Game 162 against the Los Angeles Angels during a closed-door meeting.</p><p>After the game, Wilson addressed reporters, a departure from standard MLB protocol where front-office executives typically handle such announcements. Wilson stated, "This season has been very difficult, and of course, the results have not been what any of us have expected. As a result, it's concluded that today is my last day as manager of the Seattle Mariners."</p><p>Wilson, who became manager in August 2024, expressed his connection to the organization, saying, "I'm still processing this with my family, and it's a very difficult day. We love this city. We love this community and we appreciate the organization for what it has meant to the family since coming here as a player in '94. We feel extremely blessed by all the opportunities we've been afforded."</p><p>The Mariners entered the 2026 season with high expectations after winning the AL West title in 2025 and reaching Game 7 of the ALCS. However, the team finished with a 76-86 record, falling to third place. Contributing factors included poor offensive performance, inconsistent pitching, and defensive struggles.</p><p>Wilson acknowledged issues within the team, stating, "That's always a necessary component, and I think accountability comes in a lot of different ways. Obviously, I think you look back, and there's a lot of things that you can point to, and perhaps that's one of them."</p><p>When asked about the decision-making process regarding his dismissal, Wilson noted, "I've been in baseball a while, and this is what happens. Managers shoulder the blame and shoulder the responsibility. And this is obviously difficult."</p><p>Seattle Mariners President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto and General Manager Justin Hollander will remain with the team in 2027. Dipoto remarked that "collectively we failed to meet our own expectations" and acknowledged the need for a leadership change. Wilson concludes his tenure with a record of 187-171 as manager.</p>