Seattle Mariners Trade a Day: Alex Cobb

Things have not gone well for Alex Cobb as he has really struggled with the Baltimore Orioles. But a trade with the Seattle Mariners could solve both Cobb’s problems and the Mariners problems.

Alex Cobb, a career-long Tampa Bay Ray signed with the Orioles before the start of the 2018 season. Getting a 4 yrs/$57M contract, Cobb and the Orioles were expecting to contend, well that hasn’t worked out.

The last place Orioles own a 25-47 record and are not expected to compete again anytime soon. With a weak prospect poll and key players expected to leave in free agency, things are not looking bright at all out in Baltimore.

A Fresh Start

For Cobb, another new beginning could reveal flashes of his past. We see time and time again when players get traded to a winning club they become a younger version of themselves. New starts revolutionize guys, and the same could and should be seen here. 

The contract is manageable, and the upside is high. His career 48-35 line with a 3.50 ERA, while pitching for the worst hitting team in the best hitting division is incredibly impressive.  With a quality defensive club, while pitching in Safeco Field, an arguably bottom of the rotation arm could perform like a top arm.

The two reasons listed, are two big factor’s that make for a really compelling case. And of course, there is a need out in Seattle for starting pitching. With four starters and only one guarantee, there is not much debate the M’s need an arm.

It Just Makes Sense

It may not be an answer, but it is a smart move. A corresponding move for another rotation arm most likely will be necessary as their rotation is lacking depth. Trading for Cobb won’t be “The Move,” but it will be a good move.

Next: Mariners Need to Move Seager Down in the Order, Pronto

As the clock ticks and there is just over a month until the trade deadline, we shall watch closely to the rumor wire. Cobb will be traded, and the Mariners will be searching for pitching. This combination may make for a pair.