How have the Seattle Mariners Top Prospects Fared this Spring?

Sep 26, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Carson Smith (39) pitches to the Los Angeles Angels during the eighth inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

#10 – Carson Smith – RHP

Carson Smith actually made his big league debut last September, but because of his low service time he is still considered a prospect. The M’s selected Smith in the eighth round of the 2011 draft out of Texas State University. Smith’s three quarters delivery causes hitters problems, as does his 95 mph fastball, and biting slider.

After dominating last September in Seattle, the 25-year-old righty has been inconsistent thus far in spring training. Smith has pitched four innings in Cactus League play, and he currently has a 4.50 ERA. He has been uncharacteristically wild, walking four hitters. Smith is widely regarded as a strikeout pitcher, but he has tallied only two this spring. It is still early, but Smith will have to turn it on if he hopes to earn a spot in the vaunted Mariners’ bullpen.

Carson Smith shined in 2014. Smith made his big league debut this season in Seattle, but he spent much of the season hurling in Tacoma for the Rainiers. Smith went 1-3, with a 2.93 ERA, 45 K’s and 13 walks across 43 innings of work in Triple-A. Those numbers were good enough to warrant a promotion to the M’s on September 1^st, and Smith took full advantage of the opportunity. In 8.1 innings of work, Smith went 1-0 with a 0.00 ERA, 10 strikeouts and 3 walks. Smith held opponents to a .077 batting average in Seattle.

Smith appeared to be a virtual lock to make the club this spring, but some shaky outings has called his status into question. I would not be surprised to see Smith begin the year with the Rainiers before getting called up to Seattle in May or June. Smith has future set-up man written all over him, and he could even get a look at being a closer at this level.

Next: John Hicks