Mariners Drop Game and Series – 3 Observations

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

Carson Smith is the Mariners’ Future Closer

The Mariners made a last second decision before breaking camp to send Dominic Leone down to triple-A Tacoma, and recall Carson Smith. Many questioned the move, but Lloyd McClendon has been proven right in the first 3 games of the season. Smitty struck out Mike Trout on Monday afternoon, and today he pitched 1.2 shutout innings to keep Seattle within striking distance. The 25-year-old righty struck out 3 Angels tonight, including perennial All Star Albert Pujols.

Carson Smith was brilliant for the Mariners down the stretch in 2014. The Texas State alum hurled 8.1 shutout frames, scattering a pair of hits and striking out 10. Smith was not a dominant performer this spring, but he has flipped the switch in the regular season.

I am really high on Carson Smith. I believe Smitty is the perfect pitcher to take the reigns as the Mariners’ closer in 2016. His fastball/slider combination is deadly, and his arm angle hides the ball from hitters. Look for Smith to become a go-to pitcher for Seattle coming out of the bullpen this summer.

Next: Looking Ahead