Mariners Analysis: Who’s Hot and Who’s Not

Jun 2, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Tom Wilhelmsen (54) reacts after getting a double play to end the tenth inning against the New York Yankees at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

Stock Down: Tom Wilhelmsen

Tom Wilhelmsen was a staple in the Mariners’ pen last year, always reliable and someone who Lloyd McClendon knew he could count on. So far this season though, the hard throwing ex-bartender just hasn’t been the same. Shortly into the season he was shelved on the DL with an elbow injury. Since coming back, he hasn’t been the power arm that M’s fans have come to know.

In the past week Wilhemlsen has registered an ERA of 21.00, giving up seven earned runs in just three innings of work. His fastball hasn’t looked at all the same, as he hasn’t been able to locate it one bit. His fastball velocity is also down from his 95.5 mph career average to 94.1 mph this year. The opposition is hitting .296 off the imposing right-hander so far this year, and that is the most concerning number of all. The M’s bullpen is far thinner than they were last year, and the M’s desperately need Tom to regain form.

Next: Nelson Cruz