Sodo Mojo’s Mariners Q&A: Trades, Drafts, and More Trades
Question 2: Quality Starting Pitching
Well, without knowing where you draw the line at “quality”, I would expect Dipoto to be active this July. Whether or not that is as a seller or buyer, may very well be determined in the next 40 games.
If by “quality” you mean another Mike Leake type, that might be doable this summer. The Mariners would have to eat more salary to do it, but I would say it is a strong possibility. IF you are hoping to see them add this summer’s Justin Verlander, you will be severely disappointed.
I agree that the Mariners need to get better, and would like to do so in the rotation. However, depending on the available names this summer, the Mariners could go in another direction. Upgrading in LF, the bench and bullpen could end up being cheaper than 1 starting arm.
Pitching is expensive mid-season, but with 10-15 teams already bombing the 2018 season, there may be enough names available to help the Mariners out. Many will clamor for Chris Archer but a guy like Dan Straily is much more realistic.