Seattle Mariners Take on Diamondbacks and White Sox in Split Squad Action

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Aug 10, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners relief pitcher

Dominic Leone

(52) pitches to the Chicago White Sox during the fifth inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Dominic Leone had a marvelous rookie campaign in Seattle last season. He was an unexpected contributor who made 57 appearances for the Mariners in 2014. Leone went 8-2, and posted a 2.12 ERA across 66.1 innings of work. Dom is expected to have an increased role in the M’s bullpen this season after the departure of flamethrower Brandon Mauer. The Mariners are expected to call on Leone in the middle innings of today’s tilt against the Diamondbacks. Leone has 1 scoreless inning under his belt thus far in Cactus League action.

After starring with the Rainiers for much of last season, Carson Smith made his Major League debut in early September. The 25-year-old went 1-0 and recorded a perfect 0.00 ERA across 8.1 innings in 2014. Smith is another guy who will be asked to help fill the void left by Mauer. The Midland, TX product will get a chance to pitch against the Chicago White Sox today in Glendale. Just like Leone, Smith has appeared in 1 game this spring, and held the opposition off the scoreboard. Smith has experience as a closer in the minor leagues, and I would not be surprised if he gets a chance to become the 9th inning man in Seattle before long.

Next: Shortstop Battle Heating Up