Some Non-Free Agent Starting Pitchers the Mariners Should Inquire About

Rick Porcello, SP, Detroit Tigers

Sep 21, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers starting pitcher

(21) pitches in the first inning against the Chicago White Sox at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

It’s no back-room rumor that the Tigers are shopping Porcello around, and several teams have apparently been window shopping — and so far the M’s aren’t one of them. But Porcello is an intriguing young player.

He’s young and still has a high ceiling, and he isn’t a free agent until 2016 (though like Wood he is arbitration eligible in 2014). His career ERA is a relatively bloated 4.51, but in each of the past four seasons he has managed to shave off a few points, and after strong finish to the 2013 regular season he looks like a player poised to have a good 2014.

But again, it all depends on the asking price. Porcello looks like an attractive trade option for many teams, but absolutely not the kind of gut the M’s should throw a coveted prospect at.