How are the Mariners Top Prospects Faring this Spring?

Mar 16, 2016; Peoria, AZ, USA; General view of the field prior to the game between the Seattle Mariners and the San Francisco Giants at Peoria Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 16, 2016; Peoria, AZ, USA; General view of the field prior to the game between the Seattle Mariners and the San Francisco Giants at Peoria Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 6, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Tony Zych (55) pitches the ball against the Oakland Athletics during the seventh inning at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 6, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Tony Zych (55) pitches the ball against the Oakland Athletics during the seventh inning at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

Tony Zych – RHP

The Mariners acquired Tony Zych from the Chicago Cubs last season for $1. Not a bad deal considering we rank him as the M’s third best prospect. Zych has performed well for Seattle this spring, posting a 4.05 ERA with 1 save through 7 appearances. He has struck out 13 and walked just 1 through 6.2 innings pitched.

The 25-year-old right-hander made his big league debut last season with the M’s. Zych dazzled in Seattle, registering a 2.45 ERA and a 2.04 FIP across 13 appearances. He struck out 24 and walked 3 through 18.1 innings pitched. Zych spent the bulk of 2015 in the minor-leagues. He split the season between the Jackson Generals and Tacoma Rainiers. Zych was very effective for both clubs, going a combined 1-2 with a 2.98 ERA and 9 saves in 40 appearances.

Next: Mariners Roundtable: Most Surprising Players

Seattle is desperate for relievers right now, and Zych is more than deserving of a spot in the M’s bullpen this season. His remarkable ability to rack up strikeouts could make him an option to close games for the Mariners in the near future.