Seattle Mariners: Battle for the final three roster spots
Starting Pitchers
The Mariners know who their top four starters are. Marco Gonzales, Chris Flexen, and Logan Gilbert return from last year’s rotation. They are joined by Dipoto’s big free agent signing, Robbie Ray. Last season, Ray led the American League in starts, innings pitched, strikeouts, ERA, and WHIP on his way to winning the A.L. Cy Young award.
Relief Pitchers
In 2021, Seattle’s bullpen was the surprise of baseball. Almost all of them are coming back for this season.
Those six are joined by two fireballers returning from serious injuries:
Unfortunately, at least one of the eight won’t make the team. Only one of those relievers, Misiewicz, is left-handed. Additionally, Dipoto said he’s looking for a reliever the team can use as an occasional opener. None of the above fit the bill.
Roster contenders
The GM is also looking for a front-to-middle of the rotation starter. High-end prospects Matt Brash and George Kirby have a chance to change Dipoto’s mind. Both have the raw tools to become top pitchers eventually but could use some refinement before making their respective Major League debuts.
There are two pitchers on the 40-man roster who are lefties, can start, relieve or open. Justus Sheffield and Nick Margevicius have been disappointments. Their career results have fallen short of expectations so far.
Joey Gerber and Yohan Ramirez have shown flashes of effectiveness but found it hard to stick with the team for extended periods. On the extended roster but long shots to head to Seattle on opening day are Juan Then and Wyatt Mills.
Related Story: Mariners Prospect Watch – Spring 2022
Who do you think wins the Seattle Mariners’ final three roster spots? Let us know in the comments section below.