The Mariners have an outfield anchored by Ichiro and Franklin Gutierrez with Milton Bradley like to round it out in Left, but Corey Patterson, Ryan Langerhans, and Bill Hall could see some action as well. Depends on how well Bradley clicks in Seattle, if Patterson or Hall can find their swings again, or if Langerhans can reinvent himself as more than an off the bench kind of guy. The dark horse here is Michael Saunders, but Toronto didn't even want him and his lack of offensive production last season sets him back a ways on the depth chart.
Griffey will handle a large amount of the designating hitting, but Bradley will more than likely find himself taking cuts against lefties in this spot. Again, if Hall finds his swing, he will fill in against the southpaws as well.
Rob Johnson is the favored to be the starting catcher, especially if he works as well with Lee as he has with Felix. The long term goal is to get Adam Moore some starts, but with the additions of Josh Bard and Eliezer Alfonzo, there are plenty of options to fill this spot.
The bullpen is looking the best it has in years. David Aardsma will close and be setup by Mark Lowe, Brandon League, and potentially Chad Cordero, if Cordero manages to return to health this season. If Cordero can return to complete form, prior to the injury sustained in 2008, Aarsdma better watch his back. Shawn kelley is coming off a productive enough rookie season and should fit in as a long reliever, and of course, Shawn White was having a terrific season (second on the team with 15 holds) before season ending tendinitis, but with enough rest in the off season he should return for a successful 2010 campaign. The only thing lacking is a left hander reliever, but Jason Vargas and Garrett Olson are sure to get chances to prove themselves, and if Luke French doesn't make the starting rotation, he's sure to end up here.
Speaking of the rotation, it hasn't had this kind of punch since... ever. Of course, 2009 Cy Young runner-up Felix Hernandez and 2008 Cy Young winner Cliff Lee are what's got everyone in the American League paying attention. Following them will be Ryan Rowland-Smith and Ian Snell, both decent enough 3rd and 4th starters if Rowland-Smith can stay healthy and Snell can continue to build on what he started in Seattle last year. Doug Fister, Luke French and Yusmeiro Petit will duke it out for the 5th spot, with Gaby Hernandez a potential challenger from the minor league system, but this will probably come down to post-Spring Training decision with one or more of these guys find their way into the bullpen.
Jack Wilson is THE shortstop and Chone Figgins should play third, with Jose Lopez at second, but. Adrian Beltre has still not found a new home, and as more and more teams have found their third sackers, it still remains possible for the Mariners to bring him back. Only Boston still appears interested in Beltre, though they hit a snag when a trade to send their current high paid thirdbaseman Mike Lowell to Texas fell through. Plus, the signings of John Lackey, Mike Cameron, and Marco Scutaro have packed on millions to already giant collective team salary that will undoubtedly force Boston to pay a penalty for passing the 225 million dollar threshold. Potentially, Beltre could be back at a lower salary. Other possibilities on the roster include Bill Hall and Jack Hannahan, but Figgins is assured to be the everyday starter if Beltre goes elsewhere.
It still waits to be seen if the Mariners and Russell Branyan can come up with an agreement for next season. Branyan wants to make Seattle more of a permanent location while the front office is hesitant to sign him for more than a year. If they cannot figure something out there are some free agent options:
Fernando Tatis: Right handed and has had power potential, but has been ravaged with health issues throughout his career. His career on-base percentage .346, isn't bad though. Plus,
he can fill in at third base from time to time.
Hank Blalock: Plenty of power, especially if he can stay healthy, and one of the youngest players available. Not right handed, so would be able to find the stands in Safeco, but minus points for being a Scott Boras client.
Mike Jacobs: Another younger, power hitting firstbaseman. Batting average and on-base have dropped in the last few years. Lefty.
Adam LaRoche: If Branyan doesn't bite, LaRoche would make a great replacement. He can hit for power, get on-base and field like the best of them.
Who knows what still lays ahead. Get stoked!
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
Minor Additions
Well, folks, nothing to go nuts about, but we have a few more new Mariners. Today, Catcher Josh Bard and Reliever Chad Cordero were signed to minor league contracts and given spring training invitations. While they may not be early favorites for the All Star Game, or even on the major league roster for much of the season, these moves are about depth.
Josh Bard has kicked around both the American League (Cleveland Indians and Red Sox), as well as the National League (San Diego Padres and Washington Nationals), usually filling in as a backup catcher. He platooned with Wil Nieves for the Nationals last year (playing 90 games to Nieves' 72), put up some mediocre offensive numbers (a .230 batting average with 6 homers, 31 rbis, and 20 runs scored), and was about average behind the plate compared with other catchers.
Bard was picked up, because more than likely, he will share catcher duties with Rob Johnson until the Mariners promote Adam Moore to the big leagues to stay. Bard could see extensive playing time if it takes Johnson longer than previously forseen to recover from his offseason surgies. Either way, Bard is who the Mariners have in mind to platoon with Johnson and hold a spot for Moore, but he may become the starter should anything happen to change those plans.
Chad Cordero, on the other hand, was resigned from a contract he had signed with the Mariners' in the spring of 2009. The 2008 season saw only 6 appearances for Cordero when he was still with the Washington Nationals and the 2009 season were spent rehabbing with the Mariner minor league affiliates. However, Cordero has 128 career saves for the Montreal Expos/Washington Nationals' organization and was named the National League Rolaids Relief Man of 2005, leading the league with 47 saves.
Cordero has been dominating in the past, and if he's healthy and back to form for the 2010 season, he'd make a fine addition to a bullpen that continues to strengthen itself. Get Stoked.
Josh Bard has kicked around both the American League (Cleveland Indians and Red Sox), as well as the National League (San Diego Padres and Washington Nationals), usually filling in as a backup catcher. He platooned with Wil Nieves for the Nationals last year (playing 90 games to Nieves' 72), put up some mediocre offensive numbers (a .230 batting average with 6 homers, 31 rbis, and 20 runs scored), and was about average behind the plate compared with other catchers.
Bard was picked up, because more than likely, he will share catcher duties with Rob Johnson until the Mariners promote Adam Moore to the big leagues to stay. Bard could see extensive playing time if it takes Johnson longer than previously forseen to recover from his offseason surgies. Either way, Bard is who the Mariners have in mind to platoon with Johnson and hold a spot for Moore, but he may become the starter should anything happen to change those plans.
Chad Cordero, on the other hand, was resigned from a contract he had signed with the Mariners' in the spring of 2009. The 2008 season saw only 6 appearances for Cordero when he was still with the Washington Nationals and the 2009 season were spent rehabbing with the Mariner minor league affiliates. However, Cordero has 128 career saves for the Montreal Expos/Washington Nationals' organization and was named the National League Rolaids Relief Man of 2005, leading the league with 47 saves.
Cordero has been dominating in the past, and if he's healthy and back to form for the 2010 season, he'd make a fine addition to a bullpen that continues to strengthen itself. Get Stoked.
Friday, December 25, 2009
One Last Stocking Stuffer
The Jays made the trade with us, so we swapped one Brandon for another, but also received Johermyn Chavez, the top outfielder prospect in the Blue Jays' minor league organization. In his second year of Single-A ball, Chavez knocked in 21 homers with 89 rbis while batting .283 with an on-base percentage of .346. The hope is that somewhere down the line this could be the right-handed power-hitting outfielder that the Mariners' are looking for.
I hope you all the happiest of holidays, but before I go, here's my current projected roster for the 2010 Mariners, barring any further trades or signings. Not bad:
Starting Lineup
1. Ichiro Suzuki, Rightfield
2. Chone Figgins, Thirdbase
3. Milton Bradley, Leftfield
4. Ken Griffey JR., Designated Hitter
5. Russell Branyan, Firstbase*
6. Franklin Gutierrez, Centerfield
7. Jose Lopez, Secondbase
8. Jack Wilson, Shortstop
9. Rob Johnson, Catcher
*If Branyan signs with the M's. Otherwise, there could be another free agent signing.
Bench
1. Adam Moore, Catcher
2. Ryan Langerhans, Outfielder
3. Bill Hall, Utilityfieder
4. Jack Hannahan, Utilityinfielder
5. Corey Patterson, Outfielder
Starting Rotation
1. Felix Hernandez
2. Cliff Lee
3. Ryan Rowland-Smith
4. Ian Snell
5. Doug Fister
Bullpen
1. David Aardsma, Closer
2. Mark Lowe, Setup Man
3. Brandon League, Setup Man
4. Luke French, Situational Lefty
5. Shawn Kelley, Long Relief
6. Sean White, Long Relief
I hope you all the happiest of holidays, but before I go, here's my current projected roster for the 2010 Mariners, barring any further trades or signings. Not bad:
Starting Lineup
1. Ichiro Suzuki, Rightfield
2. Chone Figgins, Thirdbase
3. Milton Bradley, Leftfield
4. Ken Griffey JR., Designated Hitter
5. Russell Branyan, Firstbase*
6. Franklin Gutierrez, Centerfield
7. Jose Lopez, Secondbase
8. Jack Wilson, Shortstop
9. Rob Johnson, Catcher
*If Branyan signs with the M's. Otherwise, there could be another free agent signing.
Bench
1. Adam Moore, Catcher
2. Ryan Langerhans, Outfielder
3. Bill Hall, Utilityfieder
4. Jack Hannahan, Utilityinfielder
5. Corey Patterson, Outfielder
Starting Rotation
1. Felix Hernandez
2. Cliff Lee
3. Ryan Rowland-Smith
4. Ian Snell
5. Doug Fister
Bullpen
1. David Aardsma, Closer
2. Mark Lowe, Setup Man
3. Brandon League, Setup Man
4. Luke French, Situational Lefty
5. Shawn Kelley, Long Relief
6. Sean White, Long Relief
Monday, December 21, 2009
Brandon for Brandon
Brandon Morrow, the Mariners once potential Closer/Starting Pitcher, is headed to Toronto. The Mariners are looking to move him for relief pitcher Brandon League and a prospect to be name later. League has a career 4.09 ERA with 6.9 strikeout per 9 innings ratio and tendency to get hitters to hit ground balls over fly balls (Only 22 homers given up in 202 innings). It'll be interesting to see who else the Jays throw in. The deal hinges on physicals that both pitchers are currently taking.
The Bradley Backlash
So, less than a week and already, the baseball world has plenty of critics weighing in on the Bradley-Silva trade. Leading the way is Yahoo Sportswriter, Steve Hanson, calling Bradley, "a reckless risk," and runs down every mishap that Bradley every committed. Of course, we can't forget that nearly every Cubs fan is ecstatic and in disbelief that we'd take on such player.
But then again, this trade is all about Carlos Silva. The reason why many are excited about Bradley is because no but thought it would be possible to be rid of Silva so soon and so easily, and get anything for him at all. Bradley may be the biggest risk ever to take, but many figured we'd have to wait out Silva's contract and let him go to free agency for nothing.
Now, this isn't to say that Bradley won't show up and have issues as he had elsewhere. Hanson beats this issue to death and foresees Bradley's past catching up with him. In fact, Hanson thinks that Bradley will bring the whole team down going as far to say that, "until Friday, the Mariners were favorites to win the Al West," but that the addition of Bradley, "will make the good intentions and shrewd moves moot." Essentially, Bradley has doomed the Mariners. I can't believe Yahoo actually pays this guy!
So, Bradley is going to be so disruptive that not only will Cliff Lee's pitching flop, but Felix Hernandez will gain 50 pounds and become the new Carlos Silva. Bradley will disrupt Franklin Gutierrez's fielding with rude gestures and swearing, and he will take put Chone Figgins on the DL with a thrown batting helmet intended for a water cooler. All the while, Don Wakamatsu and Jack Zduriencik will not only let this happen, but give up the season as a loss cause. Yep, Milton is going to nuke the Mariner's chances of competing all by himself.
This kind of an assumption is irritating, because the Mariner's current management doesn't take a back seat and give endless chances to players that cannot produce. If anything, the Mariners were continually moving players around and experimenting with different lineups, even cleaning house of players that were no longer assets to the lineup.
Ask Yuniesky Betancourt. Betancourt took over as the starting shortstop in 2005 and adequately filled the whole for a while, but found himself being called out by Wakamatsu for a lack of commitment. Halfway through the season he was sent off to kansas city and briefly replaced by Ronny Cedeno until Zduriencik upgraded Jack Wilson.
Johjima found himself playing part time when Rob Johnson started to mesh better with Felix Hernandez and Jarrod Washburn. Part of the reason why Johjima left for Japan is knowing that he no longer had the catcher spot locked down in situations where Wakamatsu felt Johnson would be a better fit.
The outfield spot that Bradley is vying for is also being coveted by Corey Patterson, Ryan Langerhans, and Michael Saunders. While Bradley is clearly the one to get first crack at starting in left and DHing when Griffey isn't in the lineup, Wakamatsu is not afraid to bench him in order to give a more productive player a chance at starting. Especially, if Bradley makes a spectacle of himself.
Anyways, to suggest that Bradley will bring down the Mariners, let alone that Wakamatsu and the front office will let him is asinine. If anything goes awry, the Mariners will eat Bradley's contract and bench or release him. That is more or less the equivalent of what they were going to do with Silva anyway, (unless you count relief pitching in garbage time a valuable use of a multi-million dollar pitcher), but this way, a gamble on Bradley may pay off. For now, I'm gonna cheer for Big Bad Bradley. I'd love him to turn over a new leaf, lead the AL in on-base percentage, and return to the All Star game. Likely? No, but not impossible.
But then again, this trade is all about Carlos Silva. The reason why many are excited about Bradley is because no but thought it would be possible to be rid of Silva so soon and so easily, and get anything for him at all. Bradley may be the biggest risk ever to take, but many figured we'd have to wait out Silva's contract and let him go to free agency for nothing.
Now, this isn't to say that Bradley won't show up and have issues as he had elsewhere. Hanson beats this issue to death and foresees Bradley's past catching up with him. In fact, Hanson thinks that Bradley will bring the whole team down going as far to say that, "until Friday, the Mariners were favorites to win the Al West," but that the addition of Bradley, "will make the good intentions and shrewd moves moot." Essentially, Bradley has doomed the Mariners. I can't believe Yahoo actually pays this guy!
So, Bradley is going to be so disruptive that not only will Cliff Lee's pitching flop, but Felix Hernandez will gain 50 pounds and become the new Carlos Silva. Bradley will disrupt Franklin Gutierrez's fielding with rude gestures and swearing, and he will take put Chone Figgins on the DL with a thrown batting helmet intended for a water cooler. All the while, Don Wakamatsu and Jack Zduriencik will not only let this happen, but give up the season as a loss cause. Yep, Milton is going to nuke the Mariner's chances of competing all by himself.
This kind of an assumption is irritating, because the Mariner's current management doesn't take a back seat and give endless chances to players that cannot produce. If anything, the Mariners were continually moving players around and experimenting with different lineups, even cleaning house of players that were no longer assets to the lineup.
Ask Yuniesky Betancourt. Betancourt took over as the starting shortstop in 2005 and adequately filled the whole for a while, but found himself being called out by Wakamatsu for a lack of commitment. Halfway through the season he was sent off to kansas city and briefly replaced by Ronny Cedeno until Zduriencik upgraded Jack Wilson.
Johjima found himself playing part time when Rob Johnson started to mesh better with Felix Hernandez and Jarrod Washburn. Part of the reason why Johjima left for Japan is knowing that he no longer had the catcher spot locked down in situations where Wakamatsu felt Johnson would be a better fit.
The outfield spot that Bradley is vying for is also being coveted by Corey Patterson, Ryan Langerhans, and Michael Saunders. While Bradley is clearly the one to get first crack at starting in left and DHing when Griffey isn't in the lineup, Wakamatsu is not afraid to bench him in order to give a more productive player a chance at starting. Especially, if Bradley makes a spectacle of himself.
Anyways, to suggest that Bradley will bring down the Mariners, let alone that Wakamatsu and the front office will let him is asinine. If anything goes awry, the Mariners will eat Bradley's contract and bench or release him. That is more or less the equivalent of what they were going to do with Silva anyway, (unless you count relief pitching in garbage time a valuable use of a multi-million dollar pitcher), but this way, a gamble on Bradley may pay off. For now, I'm gonna cheer for Big Bad Bradley. I'd love him to turn over a new leaf, lead the AL in on-base percentage, and return to the All Star game. Likely? No, but not impossible.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Milton Bradley for Carlos Silva: hmmm....
This is potentially exciting news. The Mariners got a switch-hitting outfielder and dumped their last bloated salary in the process. I've been waiting since midway 2008 for Silva to be traded, because from the getgo his Seattle contract never made any sense, but the acqusition of Bradley may come with baggage.
Now on the principal that Silva is gone, I'm a little thrilled. The Mariners gave Silva a 4 year, 48 million dollar contract at the start of 2008 based on mediocre middle of the rotation pitching in Minnesota. Silva ended up going 5-18 with 6.82 ERA through the 2008 and 2009 seasons while only making 6 starts last season. If he had stayed in Seattle for the 2010, he would have been an extremely expensive garbage time reliever, as its almost certain there would have been no spot in the rotation for him evene prior to the signing of Cliff Lee.
Bradley, on the other hand, is the Cubs' Silva in a sense, but let's start with the positives. Bradley made the 2008 allstar game with Texas when he posted a .321 batting average with 22 homers and an on-base percentage of .436. In fact, Bradley's lifetime on-base of .371, is better than all the other projected Mariners starters: Jose Lopez (.303), Jack Wilson (.310), Franklin Gutierrez (.321), Rob Johnson (.274), Chone Figgins (.363), except Griffey, whose on-base is also .371 and Ichiro (.378). So, he can hit for power and get on the basepaths regularly enough, that hitting behind players like Ichiro and Figgins, should see his RBI total rise as well.
On the other hand, Bradley managed to get himself into trouble in Chicago and become the local pariah. He labeled Cubs fans as racist, gave away a game ball when the inning still had one out remaining, and found himself sitting on the bench for the last 2 weeks of the 2009 season. While Seattle is a fresh start and having someone like Griffey in the clubhouse is always good for troubled players, there is a risk that the Mariners may have to deal with Bradley's tantrums.
Another issue, is that Bradley has had many years with injury problems. He's only played in 100 or more games 4 times in his 10 year career, (2002 in Cleveland was close with 98). Hopefully, it appears he may have turned that corner as he played more than 120 games in both 2008 and 2009 (he' probably would have topped 130-140 this year if he hadn't been benched).
So, potentially, Bradley could be a productive member of the 2010 Mariners. If not, my money is that we still got the better deal than the Cubs, but Zduriencik better be on his toes if Bradley melts down.
Now on the principal that Silva is gone, I'm a little thrilled. The Mariners gave Silva a 4 year, 48 million dollar contract at the start of 2008 based on mediocre middle of the rotation pitching in Minnesota. Silva ended up going 5-18 with 6.82 ERA through the 2008 and 2009 seasons while only making 6 starts last season. If he had stayed in Seattle for the 2010, he would have been an extremely expensive garbage time reliever, as its almost certain there would have been no spot in the rotation for him evene prior to the signing of Cliff Lee.
Bradley, on the other hand, is the Cubs' Silva in a sense, but let's start with the positives. Bradley made the 2008 allstar game with Texas when he posted a .321 batting average with 22 homers and an on-base percentage of .436. In fact, Bradley's lifetime on-base of .371, is better than all the other projected Mariners starters: Jose Lopez (.303), Jack Wilson (.310), Franklin Gutierrez (.321), Rob Johnson (.274), Chone Figgins (.363), except Griffey, whose on-base is also .371 and Ichiro (.378). So, he can hit for power and get on the basepaths regularly enough, that hitting behind players like Ichiro and Figgins, should see his RBI total rise as well.
On the other hand, Bradley managed to get himself into trouble in Chicago and become the local pariah. He labeled Cubs fans as racist, gave away a game ball when the inning still had one out remaining, and found himself sitting on the bench for the last 2 weeks of the 2009 season. While Seattle is a fresh start and having someone like Griffey in the clubhouse is always good for troubled players, there is a risk that the Mariners may have to deal with Bradley's tantrums.
Another issue, is that Bradley has had many years with injury problems. He's only played in 100 or more games 4 times in his 10 year career, (2002 in Cleveland was close with 98). Hopefully, it appears he may have turned that corner as he played more than 120 games in both 2008 and 2009 (he' probably would have topped 130-140 this year if he hadn't been benched).
So, potentially, Bradley could be a productive member of the 2010 Mariners. If not, my money is that we still got the better deal than the Cubs, but Zduriencik better be on his toes if Bradley melts down.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Cliff Lee?
So, back when Roy Halladay was on the trading block, the Phillies where dying to get their hands on him. Instead, they signed Cleveland Ace Cliff Lee and made another successful run to the post-season.
It is being reported that Halladay is back on the block and that the Phillies, Blue Jays, and Mariners are all in on a three-way deal that could send Halladay to Philly, Lee to Seattle, and some prospects to Toronto.
If this is true, it bodes well for our M's. Lee has a career Win-Loss record of 90-52 with an ERA of 3.97. This is excellent considering how many years were spent in Cleveland. Get Stoked!
It is being reported that Halladay is back on the block and that the Phillies, Blue Jays, and Mariners are all in on a three-way deal that could send Halladay to Philly, Lee to Seattle, and some prospects to Toronto.
If this is true, it bodes well for our M's. Lee has a career Win-Loss record of 90-52 with an ERA of 3.97. This is excellent considering how many years were spent in Cleveland. Get Stoked!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Out of Leftfield
The Mariners decided to non-tender outfielder Ryan Langerhans' contract. He may be brought back on a minor league contract or a bench spot, but one things for sure: he won't be starting in leftfield. Rumors still circle around free agents, such as Mike Cameron and Jason Bay, but it brings an interesting discussion as leftfield has been a spot that has switched hands more times than any other in Seattle. Here are the starting leftfielders for the M's from the last 2 decades.
1989: Greg Briley
1989 was the year that saw Junior become the Mariners' everyday centerfielder. It also was the year that Greg Briley, played his first full major league season as the an M's outfielder, playing 96 games in left. He had a career year with 13 homers and 53 rbis, only to fall quickly into mediocrity and end his career before the 1994 season.
1990: Jeffrey Leonard
With Briley shifting to right, Leonard started 74 games in left as he played out his 14th and final major league season. Somehow, I doubt he made any hall of fame ballot as he was a rather average player.
1991: Greg Briley
Yep, Briley again.
1992: kevin Mitchell
Mitchell had been a powerhouse for the San Francisco Giants for many years, having led the national league in homers, rbis, slugging percentage and intentional walks. He was sent with Mike Remlinger to the M's for pitchers Bill Swift, Mike Jackson, and Dave Burba. Mitchell did not have a remarkable for the M's and was traded midseason to the Reds for Norm "The Storm" Charlton.
1993: Mike Felder
Practially a definition of a place holder, Felder played left, put up unimpressive numbers and retired after playing the 1994 with the Houston Astros.
1994: Eric Anthony
Anthony followed suit with Felder by playing one year of unremarkable baseball with Mariners and finding himself in a whole other league in the next. He did however, reach double homer digits (10), being the first M's leftfielder to do so in 5 years, and only play a whopping 79 total games.
1995: Vince Coleman
The first year the Mariners won the divison and reached the postseason. It was a year where any long time Mariners fan would recognize nearly all the names of the startes: Griffey, Buhner, Wilson, Blowers, Martinez & Martinez (Edgar/Tino), Cora, and to a lesser extent Luis Sojo, though A-Rod was transition to starting a short this season, and of course, Vince Coleman? Coleman deserves a bit more respect than the previously mention leftfielders, as he had led the National leagues in stolen bases for 6 years straight (1985-1990), was a two time allstar, and the 1985 National League Rookie of Year. However, he only managed 40 games for the M's and the position was also filled by Darren Bragg, Warren Newson, and Marc Newfield that year. Vince filed for free agency after the season.
1996: Rich Amaral
Amaral is best known as an all purpose utility fielder that found himself at nearly every position at one time or another for the Mariners during his career with them. No surprise that he filled the constantly available position of leftfield for a season, playing 63 games, only slightly more than to Darren Bragg's 55. Let's not forget that bust of a free agent Mark Whitten (36), and bench outfielder Alex Diaz (19), picked up some playing time in left too.
1997: Jose Cruz Jr.
Well another run at the postseason, and another year where the leftfield spot remained influx. Cruz was traded midseason to Toronto where he had many productive seasons and the void was filled by Amaral, Roberto kelly, Lee Tinsley, and Rob Ducey.
1998: Glenallen Hill
Just like kevin Mitchell, Hill was picked up from the Giants with hopes that the glimmers of pop in his bat would come to life in the kingdome. Unfortunately, it didn't and his fielding was barely passable, so Hill was gone midway through the season and Amaral, with the help of Shane Monahan, took over.
1999: Brian Hunter
Hunter came in and for the first time in 10 years, he became the first Mariner to play over 100 games in left. Sure, his batting was atrocitious and his fielding was mediocre, but he had speed and led the American League in stolen bases that year. He was so fast, that he was off to the Rockies the next year.
2000: Rickey Henderson
Yep, for 1 year, Seattle had the king of base stealing roaming leftfield. He didn't disappoint, by leading the team with 31 stolen bags that year, but he didn't stay either. At least he was the first Mariner leftfielder to be elected to the Hall of Fame.
2001: Al Martin
So, Al Martin had come over in a trade from the previous year and was made the starting Leftfielder in 2001. He had some pop in his bat prior to coming to Seattle, but could not produce upon reaching the emerald city. and was easily, the least productive starting member of the team that won 116. If you ask me, Stan Javier should have been given more playing time.
2002: Mark McLemore
Like, Rich Amaral before him, Mark McLemore became the second career utility player to start the majority of games in leftfield for the Mariners for a season. McLemore was no slouch with a glove and could steal a base from you, but having him in that spot showed that finding an everyday leftfielder for more than a year was still no on the agenda. Ruben Sierra (59 games) and Charles Gipson (57) also had signifcant playing time in left.
2003: Randy Winn
Winn came in and played 157 games in left, by and far the most of any player on this list. He had a good amount of speed and occasional power, and if it weren't Ichiro, he would have probably batted leadoff. The most solid all around and consistent player to start in left, unless you include...
2004: Raul Ibanez
Winn porbably would have stayed in Left had Mike Cameron not left the club, but he got shifted to Center and Ibanez took over in left for most of 2004. Ibanez had come up in the Mariners organization, only to be shipped off the kansas city and then return as an everyday player in 2004.
2005: Randy Winn
Only then, Edgar Martinez retired and Raul's fielding wasn't stellar, so Raul took over most of the DHing duties and Winn was moved back to left for the 2005 season, though Raul did play 55 to Winn's 92.
2006-2008: Raul Ibanez
But then, Winn was gone and Carl Everett was picked up, but his fielding was worse than Ibanez's, so Raul was playing the field once again. Ibanez had a career year with 33 homers and 123 rbis. Raul then held down the fort for the next two seasons and was the best option the Mariners had in Left.
2009: Behemoth
Of course, this year, there really was no consistency. Endy Chavez probably would have taken the spot over, had he not succumbed to a season ending injury in July when he collided with Yuniesky Betancourt. In addition to Langerhans, Wladimir Balentien spent some time in left before he was traded midseason and Michael Saunders was an on and off again experiment. In fact, late season addition Bill Hall put in a few games, and it was the only field spot that Griffey played for a few games.
Hopefully, we can figure something out, because the tradition of having this continual void in left gets old. Definitely missing Raul these days.
1989: Greg Briley
1989 was the year that saw Junior become the Mariners' everyday centerfielder. It also was the year that Greg Briley, played his first full major league season as the an M's outfielder, playing 96 games in left. He had a career year with 13 homers and 53 rbis, only to fall quickly into mediocrity and end his career before the 1994 season.
1990: Jeffrey Leonard
With Briley shifting to right, Leonard started 74 games in left as he played out his 14th and final major league season. Somehow, I doubt he made any hall of fame ballot as he was a rather average player.
1991: Greg Briley
Yep, Briley again.
1992: kevin Mitchell
Mitchell had been a powerhouse for the San Francisco Giants for many years, having led the national league in homers, rbis, slugging percentage and intentional walks. He was sent with Mike Remlinger to the M's for pitchers Bill Swift, Mike Jackson, and Dave Burba. Mitchell did not have a remarkable for the M's and was traded midseason to the Reds for Norm "The Storm" Charlton.
1993: Mike Felder
Practially a definition of a place holder, Felder played left, put up unimpressive numbers and retired after playing the 1994 with the Houston Astros.
1994: Eric Anthony
Anthony followed suit with Felder by playing one year of unremarkable baseball with Mariners and finding himself in a whole other league in the next. He did however, reach double homer digits (10), being the first M's leftfielder to do so in 5 years, and only play a whopping 79 total games.
1995: Vince Coleman
The first year the Mariners won the divison and reached the postseason. It was a year where any long time Mariners fan would recognize nearly all the names of the startes: Griffey, Buhner, Wilson, Blowers, Martinez & Martinez (Edgar/Tino), Cora, and to a lesser extent Luis Sojo, though A-Rod was transition to starting a short this season, and of course, Vince Coleman? Coleman deserves a bit more respect than the previously mention leftfielders, as he had led the National leagues in stolen bases for 6 years straight (1985-1990), was a two time allstar, and the 1985 National League Rookie of Year. However, he only managed 40 games for the M's and the position was also filled by Darren Bragg, Warren Newson, and Marc Newfield that year. Vince filed for free agency after the season.
1996: Rich Amaral
Amaral is best known as an all purpose utility fielder that found himself at nearly every position at one time or another for the Mariners during his career with them. No surprise that he filled the constantly available position of leftfield for a season, playing 63 games, only slightly more than to Darren Bragg's 55. Let's not forget that bust of a free agent Mark Whitten (36), and bench outfielder Alex Diaz (19), picked up some playing time in left too.
1997: Jose Cruz Jr.
Well another run at the postseason, and another year where the leftfield spot remained influx. Cruz was traded midseason to Toronto where he had many productive seasons and the void was filled by Amaral, Roberto kelly, Lee Tinsley, and Rob Ducey.
1998: Glenallen Hill
Just like kevin Mitchell, Hill was picked up from the Giants with hopes that the glimmers of pop in his bat would come to life in the kingdome. Unfortunately, it didn't and his fielding was barely passable, so Hill was gone midway through the season and Amaral, with the help of Shane Monahan, took over.
1999: Brian Hunter
Hunter came in and for the first time in 10 years, he became the first Mariner to play over 100 games in left. Sure, his batting was atrocitious and his fielding was mediocre, but he had speed and led the American League in stolen bases that year. He was so fast, that he was off to the Rockies the next year.
2000: Rickey Henderson
Yep, for 1 year, Seattle had the king of base stealing roaming leftfield. He didn't disappoint, by leading the team with 31 stolen bags that year, but he didn't stay either. At least he was the first Mariner leftfielder to be elected to the Hall of Fame.
2001: Al Martin
So, Al Martin had come over in a trade from the previous year and was made the starting Leftfielder in 2001. He had some pop in his bat prior to coming to Seattle, but could not produce upon reaching the emerald city. and was easily, the least productive starting member of the team that won 116. If you ask me, Stan Javier should have been given more playing time.
2002: Mark McLemore
Like, Rich Amaral before him, Mark McLemore became the second career utility player to start the majority of games in leftfield for the Mariners for a season. McLemore was no slouch with a glove and could steal a base from you, but having him in that spot showed that finding an everyday leftfielder for more than a year was still no on the agenda. Ruben Sierra (59 games) and Charles Gipson (57) also had signifcant playing time in left.
2003: Randy Winn
Winn came in and played 157 games in left, by and far the most of any player on this list. He had a good amount of speed and occasional power, and if it weren't Ichiro, he would have probably batted leadoff. The most solid all around and consistent player to start in left, unless you include...
2004: Raul Ibanez
Winn porbably would have stayed in Left had Mike Cameron not left the club, but he got shifted to Center and Ibanez took over in left for most of 2004. Ibanez had come up in the Mariners organization, only to be shipped off the kansas city and then return as an everyday player in 2004.
2005: Randy Winn
Only then, Edgar Martinez retired and Raul's fielding wasn't stellar, so Raul took over most of the DHing duties and Winn was moved back to left for the 2005 season, though Raul did play 55 to Winn's 92.
2006-2008: Raul Ibanez
But then, Winn was gone and Carl Everett was picked up, but his fielding was worse than Ibanez's, so Raul was playing the field once again. Ibanez had a career year with 33 homers and 123 rbis. Raul then held down the fort for the next two seasons and was the best option the Mariners had in Left.
2009: Behemoth
Of course, this year, there really was no consistency. Endy Chavez probably would have taken the spot over, had he not succumbed to a season ending injury in July when he collided with Yuniesky Betancourt. In addition to Langerhans, Wladimir Balentien spent some time in left before he was traded midseason and Michael Saunders was an on and off again experiment. In fact, late season addition Bill Hall put in a few games, and it was the only field spot that Griffey played for a few games.
Hopefully, we can figure something out, because the tradition of having this continual void in left gets old. Definitely missing Raul these days.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
A Few Small Gambits
The winter meetings closed with the M's not making any more of the huge moves that many anticipated. They came away with Figgins as their big signing and then made some smaller moves, by resigning shortstop Josh Wilson to a minor league contract, grabbing Kanekoa Texeira in the Rule 5 Draft and signing veteran outfielder Corey Patterson to a minor league deal with an invitation to Spring Training.
While Mariners fans may be chomping at the bit for the big free agents to still come in, knowing how everything played out last year, we can not ignore these small moves, particularly that of acquiring Patterson. After all, several of the key players on the roster were pretty obscure at the start of last season. Some would never have been pegged as starers at the Major League level. Here's a couple of examples.
Case 1: Closer David Aardsma
Aardsma was a former first round draft pick by the San Francisco Giants back in 2004. He had brief stints with the Giants, White Sox, Cubs, and ended up in Boston in 2008. He was used primarily as a middle reliever when brought from the minors and never posted an ERA below 4.00. In fact, He only managed an ERA under 5.50 once prior to the 2009 season. In the minors, he was given the chance to close games, picking up 44 saves between the A and AAA levels, but never appeared he'd be given a chance to do that in the bigs.
The only thing that stood out about Aardsma was a career 9.1 strikeout per 9 innings ratio. However, it must have been enough to get Zduriencik to trade Fabian Williamson to Boston in order to get Aardsma last January, and then invite him to spring training. He saved 38 games, tying Jon Papelbon of Boston for 4th in the American league and has made himself the Mariners Closer for some time to come.
Case 2: Firstbaseman Russell Branyan
Branyan had some promise when he first came up in the late-90s. In his first official year with Cleveland in 2000, he hit 16 home runs in 67 games. He then went on to top 20 homers and play over 100 over the next two seasons, only to never repeat those performances never again. Six years and 7 teams later, Branyan was a part time corner infielder for the Milwaukee Brewers and looked to finish out his career as a platoon/bench player.
He was signed by the Mariners as a free agent in December of last year and given the chance in spring training to prove himself an everyday firstbaseman. Branyan went on to lead the Mariners in home runs with 31 and is now being sought after for a one year extension.
Now, Patterson is a great example of a potential Zduriencik gambit that may payoff big as well. Patterson started with the Cubs in 2000 and became an everyday outfielder by 2002. he put up 24 homers in 2004 when he also managed to play in a career high 157 games. He moved to the Orioles in 2006, still playing everyday and stealing quite a few bags as well. However, when he moved to the Reds in 2008, his numbers saw a decline and in 2009, Patterson split time between the Nationals and the Brewers while hitting an abysmal .103 in a mere 16 games.
Patterson has a chance to play leftfield everyday, much like the chances Branyan and Aardsma were given. He has some speed and power that he could find again, and his fielding has also gained recognition from the front office. However, if this signing does not turn out to payoff, Patterson is not the same kind of high dollar/high risk that many previous Mariner free agent signing disasters have been.
While Mariners fans may be chomping at the bit for the big free agents to still come in, knowing how everything played out last year, we can not ignore these small moves, particularly that of acquiring Patterson. After all, several of the key players on the roster were pretty obscure at the start of last season. Some would never have been pegged as starers at the Major League level. Here's a couple of examples.
Case 1: Closer David Aardsma
Aardsma was a former first round draft pick by the San Francisco Giants back in 2004. He had brief stints with the Giants, White Sox, Cubs, and ended up in Boston in 2008. He was used primarily as a middle reliever when brought from the minors and never posted an ERA below 4.00. In fact, He only managed an ERA under 5.50 once prior to the 2009 season. In the minors, he was given the chance to close games, picking up 44 saves between the A and AAA levels, but never appeared he'd be given a chance to do that in the bigs.
The only thing that stood out about Aardsma was a career 9.1 strikeout per 9 innings ratio. However, it must have been enough to get Zduriencik to trade Fabian Williamson to Boston in order to get Aardsma last January, and then invite him to spring training. He saved 38 games, tying Jon Papelbon of Boston for 4th in the American league and has made himself the Mariners Closer for some time to come.
Case 2: Firstbaseman Russell Branyan
Branyan had some promise when he first came up in the late-90s. In his first official year with Cleveland in 2000, he hit 16 home runs in 67 games. He then went on to top 20 homers and play over 100 over the next two seasons, only to never repeat those performances never again. Six years and 7 teams later, Branyan was a part time corner infielder for the Milwaukee Brewers and looked to finish out his career as a platoon/bench player.
He was signed by the Mariners as a free agent in December of last year and given the chance in spring training to prove himself an everyday firstbaseman. Branyan went on to lead the Mariners in home runs with 31 and is now being sought after for a one year extension.
Now, Patterson is a great example of a potential Zduriencik gambit that may payoff big as well. Patterson started with the Cubs in 2000 and became an everyday outfielder by 2002. he put up 24 homers in 2004 when he also managed to play in a career high 157 games. He moved to the Orioles in 2006, still playing everyday and stealing quite a few bags as well. However, when he moved to the Reds in 2008, his numbers saw a decline and in 2009, Patterson split time between the Nationals and the Brewers while hitting an abysmal .103 in a mere 16 games.
Patterson has a chance to play leftfield everyday, much like the chances Branyan and Aardsma were given. He has some speed and power that he could find again, and his fielding has also gained recognition from the front office. However, if this signing does not turn out to payoff, Patterson is not the same kind of high dollar/high risk that many previous Mariner free agent signing disasters have been.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Finding The Right Pieces
As of yesterday, the aforementioned signing of free agent Chone Figgins is official. The team is excited, Chone is excited, and you should all be too. For more on what Chone brings to the team, refer to the previous post.
However, it does not appear that the Mariners have given up resigning Adrian Beltre just yet. Jack Zduriencik met with Beltre's agent, Scott Boras, last night to see what options may exist for bring Beltre back. Many have started to speculate that resigning Beltre would move Figgins to either the void in leftfield, or second base. The latter could see Jose Lopez sent away in a trade.
Meanwhile, the M's continue to be tied to many available free agents, both high and low profile, as they are left with many holes to fill. Who will play firstbase? Leftfield? Catcher? Starting Pitcher?
The M's still seem to be in negotiations with Russell Branyan, but have yet to finalize anything. The issue still appears to be the length of the contract with Branyan wanting more than the single year deal that the Zduriencik is offering. Otherwise, the Mariners have had their eyes on Nick Johnson, a firstbaseman that finished out last year with the Florida Marlins. Johnson has been rather injury prone, but I'm sure Zdurencik likes that this guy has a lifetime on-base percentage of .402.
Leftfield could be filled by Figgins if a deal is struck with Beltre, but meanwhile, the Mariners have been exploring other options. Jason Bay remains the high profile candidate, but there are still many other teams after him. A more recent rumor is that the Mariners may be looking to bring back Mike Cameron. Cameron still has a bit of pop in his bat, averaging at least 20 homers over the past decade. He's also a great fielder with 3 gold gloves (2001, 2003, & 2006), which follows the Mariners and Don Wakamatsu's philosophy of having a strong defense. However, he does strikeout a lot, having reached the top 10 in that category every year for the last decade and he's no spring chicken as he turns 37 in January of next year.
Catching-wise, the Mariners plan to use Rob Johnson and Adam Moore to some extent, but Johnson will be coming off a series of post-season hip surgeries and Moore has very limited experience in both the Major and Minor leagues. While Johnson will probably catch every start for Felix Hernandez, (health issues willing), due to the harmony created between the two last season, it is not certain whether or not Johnson will become a clear starter or if the Mariners will opt to sign a veteran free agent to platoon and help give Adam Moore some guidance. Many of the free agent catchers have been signed, include Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez, Henry Blanco, and Greg Zaun. Ryan Doumit from the Pirates or former Mariner, Miguel Olivio may be options, but nothing substantial has been reported.
As far as starting pitchers it sounds as if the division rival Texas Rangers will sign Rich Harden. The Mariners have expressed interest in Darren Oliver and Kelvim Escobar, both currently on the Angels roster. If helathy, both players could make formidable starters behind Felix Hernandez. Also, Bedard may not be quite gone as the front office has had mutterings about a possible resigning.
That's all for now, got to clock back in.
However, it does not appear that the Mariners have given up resigning Adrian Beltre just yet. Jack Zduriencik met with Beltre's agent, Scott Boras, last night to see what options may exist for bring Beltre back. Many have started to speculate that resigning Beltre would move Figgins to either the void in leftfield, or second base. The latter could see Jose Lopez sent away in a trade.
Meanwhile, the M's continue to be tied to many available free agents, both high and low profile, as they are left with many holes to fill. Who will play firstbase? Leftfield? Catcher? Starting Pitcher?
The M's still seem to be in negotiations with Russell Branyan, but have yet to finalize anything. The issue still appears to be the length of the contract with Branyan wanting more than the single year deal that the Zduriencik is offering. Otherwise, the Mariners have had their eyes on Nick Johnson, a firstbaseman that finished out last year with the Florida Marlins. Johnson has been rather injury prone, but I'm sure Zdurencik likes that this guy has a lifetime on-base percentage of .402.
Leftfield could be filled by Figgins if a deal is struck with Beltre, but meanwhile, the Mariners have been exploring other options. Jason Bay remains the high profile candidate, but there are still many other teams after him. A more recent rumor is that the Mariners may be looking to bring back Mike Cameron. Cameron still has a bit of pop in his bat, averaging at least 20 homers over the past decade. He's also a great fielder with 3 gold gloves (2001, 2003, & 2006), which follows the Mariners and Don Wakamatsu's philosophy of having a strong defense. However, he does strikeout a lot, having reached the top 10 in that category every year for the last decade and he's no spring chicken as he turns 37 in January of next year.
Catching-wise, the Mariners plan to use Rob Johnson and Adam Moore to some extent, but Johnson will be coming off a series of post-season hip surgeries and Moore has very limited experience in both the Major and Minor leagues. While Johnson will probably catch every start for Felix Hernandez, (health issues willing), due to the harmony created between the two last season, it is not certain whether or not Johnson will become a clear starter or if the Mariners will opt to sign a veteran free agent to platoon and help give Adam Moore some guidance. Many of the free agent catchers have been signed, include Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez, Henry Blanco, and Greg Zaun. Ryan Doumit from the Pirates or former Mariner, Miguel Olivio may be options, but nothing substantial has been reported.
As far as starting pitchers it sounds as if the division rival Texas Rangers will sign Rich Harden. The Mariners have expressed interest in Darren Oliver and Kelvim Escobar, both currently on the Angels roster. If helathy, both players could make formidable starters behind Felix Hernandez. Also, Bedard may not be quite gone as the front office has had mutterings about a possible resigning.
That's all for now, got to clock back in.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Figgi Pudding
Christmas came early M's Fans! Just announced from several media sources, the Mariners have signed speedy, switching-hitting thirdbaseman Chone Figgins to a 4 year, 36 million dollar contract. For those of you unaware of how this acquisition vastly improves our team, here's a bunch of reasons in no specific order:
-With an on-base percentage near .400 in 2009 and last year's highest amount of walks, Figgins will make a great addition to the top of the lineup. Instead of wasting Russell Branyan or Franklin Gutierrez in the number 2 spot, Figgins can bat after Ichiro and present the Mariners with more opportunities to drive runs in.
-Figgins' potential to create more runs will help take some of the pressure off the pitching staff, giving them bigger leads to protect.
-Figgins has stolen at least 30 bases each year since 2004, more than any Mariner last year. Thus, he brings much needed speed to the lineup.
-Figgins can play all positions of the outfield, second base, and shortstop as well as third base. For now, it appears the Mariners plan to have Figgins replace Beltre at third, but if Matt Tuiasosopo can handle the hot corner, Figgins can be shifted to any of these other spots without having to learn a new position. Offensively, Figgins can always fill in the lead off spot if Ichiro needs a day off or is injured.
-When the Mariners signed Figgins, the Angels also lost a key member of their lineup in their lead off hitter and thirdbaseman, thus giving the Mariners a leg up on their biggest threat to an AL West pennant.
Meanwhile, Adrian Beltre has still not decided whether or not he will stay with the M's. With this signing, it appears doubtful, but while Beltre's fielding and occasional power threats may be missed, I believe Figgins has more upsides. He may not top 7 home runs, but he will reach base at least 200 times and score at leasy 100 runs. Plus, his base running and fielding will not be too shabby either.
-With an on-base percentage near .400 in 2009 and last year's highest amount of walks, Figgins will make a great addition to the top of the lineup. Instead of wasting Russell Branyan or Franklin Gutierrez in the number 2 spot, Figgins can bat after Ichiro and present the Mariners with more opportunities to drive runs in.
-Figgins' potential to create more runs will help take some of the pressure off the pitching staff, giving them bigger leads to protect.
-Figgins has stolen at least 30 bases each year since 2004, more than any Mariner last year. Thus, he brings much needed speed to the lineup.
-Figgins can play all positions of the outfield, second base, and shortstop as well as third base. For now, it appears the Mariners plan to have Figgins replace Beltre at third, but if Matt Tuiasosopo can handle the hot corner, Figgins can be shifted to any of these other spots without having to learn a new position. Offensively, Figgins can always fill in the lead off spot if Ichiro needs a day off or is injured.
-When the Mariners signed Figgins, the Angels also lost a key member of their lineup in their lead off hitter and thirdbaseman, thus giving the Mariners a leg up on their biggest threat to an AL West pennant.
Meanwhile, Adrian Beltre has still not decided whether or not he will stay with the M's. With this signing, it appears doubtful, but while Beltre's fielding and occasional power threats may be missed, I believe Figgins has more upsides. He may not top 7 home runs, but he will reach base at least 200 times and score at leasy 100 runs. Plus, his base running and fielding will not be too shabby either.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Arbitration: Beltre-Yes, Bedard-NO!
With the winter meetings just around the corner, the Mariners chose to offer thirdbaseman Adrian Beltre. What this means is that Beltre can choose to accept and that would lock him into another contract with the Mariners for at least the 2010 season for a salary to be determined between him and the ball club, or if necessary, with a third, un-biased party. However, if Beltre declines, the Mariners will receive an additional pick in the 2010 draft during a supplemental round.
Essentially, the Mariners stand to come out on top in this situation. Beltre is one of the finest defensive players at third and very capable of being an offensive force to reckon with. Safeco's dimensions do not favor right handed sluggers, so many have speculated that he's looking to move to a field where he can plant them in the left bleachers much easier. Plus, several teams (specifically the Phillies and Orioles) have already began to express interest in picking him up, so he is not what you'd call a hard sale.
On the other hand, if Beltre chooses to negotiate a new deal, the Mariners will not have to fill a giant hole on the left side of the infield. It will be hard to find someone of his same defensive caliber and even with a deep left field, Beltre has still managed to have some productive years in Seattle, managing to average 20 homers and about 80 rbis in his seasons in Seattle. It may be a bit of a steep price, but it could payoff to keep him.
Starting pitcher Erik Bedard, however, was not offered arbitration and is probably hitting the road. In each of his seasons, Bedard has only managed to start 15 games and pitch around 80 innings. For the guy who was suppose to add much needed depth and power to the rotation, he's been a giant bust. Injuries have plagued him both years and he's just too expensive to take a chance on. Some clubs, notably Kansas City, have mentioned interest in Bedard, but the Mariners do not appear to want to take the chance of offering him arbitration and risk having to sign him for another lackluster season.
No word, on Chavez, Sweeney, or Batista, but whether or not they sign with Seattle, they do not place into an arbitration category that would bring the Mariners more draft picks if they were to sign elsewhere. The talks between the club and Russell Branyan have not rendered any new info, but it is still believed that the Mariners are attempting to work out some kind of deal with him.
Essentially, the Mariners stand to come out on top in this situation. Beltre is one of the finest defensive players at third and very capable of being an offensive force to reckon with. Safeco's dimensions do not favor right handed sluggers, so many have speculated that he's looking to move to a field where he can plant them in the left bleachers much easier. Plus, several teams (specifically the Phillies and Orioles) have already began to express interest in picking him up, so he is not what you'd call a hard sale.
On the other hand, if Beltre chooses to negotiate a new deal, the Mariners will not have to fill a giant hole on the left side of the infield. It will be hard to find someone of his same defensive caliber and even with a deep left field, Beltre has still managed to have some productive years in Seattle, managing to average 20 homers and about 80 rbis in his seasons in Seattle. It may be a bit of a steep price, but it could payoff to keep him.
Starting pitcher Erik Bedard, however, was not offered arbitration and is probably hitting the road. In each of his seasons, Bedard has only managed to start 15 games and pitch around 80 innings. For the guy who was suppose to add much needed depth and power to the rotation, he's been a giant bust. Injuries have plagued him both years and he's just too expensive to take a chance on. Some clubs, notably Kansas City, have mentioned interest in Bedard, but the Mariners do not appear to want to take the chance of offering him arbitration and risk having to sign him for another lackluster season.
No word, on Chavez, Sweeney, or Batista, but whether or not they sign with Seattle, they do not place into an arbitration category that would bring the Mariners more draft picks if they were to sign elsewhere. The talks between the club and Russell Branyan have not rendered any new info, but it is still believed that the Mariners are attempting to work out some kind of deal with him.