Key offseason additions- Robinson Cano, Fernando Rodney, Logan Morrison, Corey Hart
Key offseason departures- Kendrys Morales, Raul Ibanez, Aaron Harang, Joe Saunders
The Mariners finally added the piece that they have been missing the past couple of seasons, a middle of the order power bat with the signing of Robinson Cano. The question is, will Cano be enough? The former Yankee slugger recently came out and said he needs more offensive help in the lineup. Seattle is loaded with young offensive talent like Mike Zunino, Jesus Montero, Brad Miller, Nick Franklin, and Kyle Seager. The system seems to have an issue developing offensive talent, but if these players can all build upon their experience in the majors last year, the offense should take a big step forward.
I think Seattle has the most underrated pitching staff in baseball. Everyone knows what Felix Hernandez brings to table, but Hisashi Iwakuma came out of nowhere last year to finish 7th in MLB in ERA. Behind these two are three young, highly touted prospects in Taijuan Walker, James Paxton, and Danny Hultzen (who will miss 2014 with injury). This group promises a bright future for starting pitching in Seattle.
The Mariners are loaded with young talent. The problem with their youngsters is that many of them will be getting their first full big league season in 2014, and I don't know if their ready to be competitive yet. They will certainly be improved over last season, and this team is poised to make deep playoff runs in the coming years, but 2014 isn't the season for that.
Predicted finish- 3rd AL West
No comments:
Post a Comment