Seattle Mariners: Scott Servais Part of the Solution….right?
Chris Phillips
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On Second Thought
As previously mentioned, I have defended Servais many times over. However, I am now wondering if maybe he is part of the problem? We saw him botch a pretty simple pitching change during this series in Boston. Servais decided it was time to turn to his bullpen. His starter, George Kirby, had already pitched five innings and was about to face the order for the third time. No problem here, as this is more common in today’s baseball.
Sergio Romo is the reliever that Servais is going with, and Romo’s been warming up. However, he tells Servais that he needs more time to get loose. So, Servais has Kirby go out to the mound (crossing the foul line) and throw some warm-up pitches. Then Servais makes the call to the bullpen to get Romo. Boston immediately calls foul play on Seattle. The rules are since Kirby entered play and warmed up, he has to face one batter before he can exit. Unless of course, there is an injury or a batter change.
Neither is the case, so Kirby faces Alex Verdugo, who starts a sixth-inning meltdown for the Seattle Mariners. After the game, Servais owns up to his mistake, which in today’s society of, not taking the blame is refreshing to see. However, it is a bit perplexing that Servais or anyone on his staff didn’t know the rule. Or that the umpire didn’t explain the rule clearly when Servais went to talk with him about changing the pitchers.
The Mariners turned four double plays today behind Matt Brash.
"We've got a really good defensive team," Scott Servais said. "These guys work their tail off every day." pic.twitter.com/aDxTUyuIFH
— Daniel Kramer (@DKramer_) April 18, 2022
Next: Page 3 – Change of Heart