Seattle Mariners Game Recap: M’s “Cruz” Past Rangers

Mar 22, 2015; Peoria, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners relief pitcher David Rollins (73) throws during the fourth inning against the Texas Rangers at Peoria Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

The more we see of David Rollins, the more apparent it becomes that he is deserving of becoming the second lefty in the Mariners’ bullpen. Rollins pitched 1.2 scoreless innings on Sunday afternoon in relief of James Paxton. The 25-year-old southpaw did not register a strikeout today, but he allowed just one hit and did not issue any free passes. His fastball consistently hits 92 mph on the gun, and he has allowed just 1 run across 8 innings of work this spring.

David Rollins and Tyler Olson are both making strong cases to be the second southpaw, but Rollins has a slight edge due to his rule 5 status. The Mariners selected Rollins during the rule 5 draft this past December off the Houston Astros roster. Rollins will have to pass through waivers if he is unable to make the M’s this spring, if he clears, which seems unlikely, he would be returned to the Astros. Olson spent 2014 with the Mariners’ triple-A affiliate in Tacoma, and could easily start there again this year. The M’s are going to do their best to find a spot for Rollins on their opening day roster, and I believe he will be the second lefty down in the M’s ‘pen to start the season.

Next: Looking Ahead