Seattle Mariners Friday Five: Things To Watch For This Weekend

Aug 9, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher James Paxton (65) stands on the mound against the Chicago White Sox during the sixth inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

3- James Paxton Is The Trade The Mariners Didn’t Have To Make

As the July 31st trade deadline approached, the Mariners were thought to be in the market for another starting arm. They got one with the return of Paxton from the disabled list.

In his two starts since returning from his lat injury, he has recorded two no decisions, pitched 10.2 innings scattering 10 hits and 3 BB while allowing just 3 ER and striking out nine.

The pitcher a lot of Mariners fans wanted the team to acquire, David Price, has also recorded two no decisions in his first two starts of August.

Price though, has pitched 14.2 innings allowing 13 hits and 3 BB while striking out 16. Similar to the numbers Paxton has put up. Where they separate is when you look at the fact that Price has allowed 7 ER including three homers in those two starts.

It may just be that the Mariners made the best move of the trade deadline, in not acquiring Price.

Paxton will go in game one against Rick Porcello, who has only allowed 4 ER in his last four starts.