Mariners Analysis: Recapping the M’s Opening Series of the Year

Apr 6, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Seattle Mariners second baseman Robinson Cano (22) celebrates a two run home run with right fielder Nelson Cruz (23) in the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 6, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Seattle Mariners second baseman Robinson Cano (22) celebrates a two run home run with right fielder Nelson Cruz (23) in the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 6, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Nick Vincent (50) pitches in the seventh inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 6, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Nick Vincent (50) pitches in the seventh inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

The bullpen dazzles in Arlington

The Mariners received decent starts from Felix Hernandez, Hisashi Iwakuma and Wade Miley this week, but it was the work of the bullpen that stood out. The M’s relievers combined to pitch 9 shutout frames against the hard hitting Rangers. Seattle used six different relievers, tallied 14 punch outs and walked 5.

The most impressive performers have to be Nick Vincent and Mike Montgomery. Vincent was acquired from the San Diego Padres prior to the start of the season, and the veteran right-hander earned his first win as a Mariner this week and struck out 4 in two appearances. Monty made his first career relief appearance on opening day, and he hurled a pair of scoreless frames while striking out 4.

The bullpen was a huge problem for the Mariners in 2015, and Jerry Dipoto effectively rebuilt the entire group this winter. So far the results have been very good. Hopefully that continues, as the ‘pen is an extremely important aspect of any winning team.

Next: Top to bottom, the M's look good at the plate