Mariners Analysis: Updating the M’s 5th Starting Pitcher Position Battle

James Paxton – LHP

The big southpaw had the best outing of any M’s pitcher this week, but then he followed it up with the worst start of the spring. James Paxton dazzled against the Los Angeles Dodgers, allowing 1 unearned run on 3 hits through 4 innings of work with 2 strikeouts and 0 walks. However, he was roughed up by the Oakland A’s later in the week, surrendering 7 earned runs on 7 hits across 2 innings. Paxton struggled with location versus Oakland, as he issued 4 free passes.

Paxton has made 4 starts this spring for Seattle, and he has had his share of issues. The 27-year-old sports a record of 1-1 with a 9.00 ERA through 11 Cactus League innings. Paxton has struck out 6 and walked 5. He has allowed 1.91 walks/hits per inning, and the opposition is hitting .327 against Pax-Man.

The Ladner, BC product’s injury history is well documented, but Paxton has been remarkably productive when healthy. He has gone 12-8 with a 3.16 ERA across 30 career starts. Paxton was once again one of the M’s better hurlers in 2015, going 3-4 with a 3.90 ERA in 13 outings. He fanned 56 and issued 29 free passes through 67 innings pitched. Aside from the lack of starts, the only red flag last year was the fact he allowed 1.433 walks/hits per inning.

Next: Who has the edge?