Discussing the Mariners Arizona Fall League Representatives

May 12, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher James Paxton (65) throws against the San Diego Padres during the sixth inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

James Paxton – LHP

It is unconventional to send a 26-year-old veteran to the Arizona Fall League, but that is exactly what Seattle is doing. James Paxton has not appeared in a big league game since May 28. The imposing southpaw has been dealing with a strained tendon in his left middle finger. Prior to injuring himself, Paxton was 3-3 with a 3.70 ERA across 10 outings. He struck out 45 and walked 22 through 58.1 innings pitched.

Paxton is working his way back to Seattle, and many expect him to finish the season in the M’s starting rotation. The Ladner, BC product is currently in Tacoma, where he has gone 0-1 with a 9.82 ERA in his first 2 starts with the Rainiers. Those numbers are ugly, but he has only pitched 3.2 innings, so his earned run average is inflated.

James Paxton has pitched a total of 62 innings thus far in 2015. The Mariners want him to increase that tally, and they feel sending him to the AFL is the best way of doing so. Seattle employed a similar tactic last year with Taijuan Walker, and just like with Walker, do not be surprised if Paxton only makes a couple appearances before shutting it down for the winter.

Next: David Rollins