Left-handed reliever Caleb Ferguson has joined the Seattle Mariners just hours after being traded from the Pittsburgh Pirates. Ferguson reported to the team approximately 45 minutes before the first pitch of their series finale against the Athletics in West Sacramento, California.
To accommodate Ferguson on the 26-man roster, the Mariners optioned right-handed reliever Jackson Kowar to Triple-A Tacoma. This quick transition was facilitated by the Pirates’ recent series in San Francisco, which is relatively close to West Sacramento, making it easier for Ferguson to arrive in time.
This season, Ferguson boasts a solid 3.74 ERA and a 1.08 WHIP, having struck out 34 batters while walking 14 across 43 1/3 innings over 45 games. Over his career, he has maintained an ERA of 3.69 across 305 innings in the majors with various teams including the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Houston Astros, and the Pirates. Notably, he features a four-pitch arsenal that includes a 94 mph four-seam fastball, cutter, sinker, and slurve, with opponents hitting only .152 against his slurve this year.
In contrast, Kowar, a former first-round pick acquired in a trade with the Atlanta Braves, has had a strong 1.54 ERA and 0.86 WHIP in his limited big league appearances this season, following recovery from Tommy John surgery. Kowar’s performance highlights the Mariners’ depth in their pitching staff, emphasizing the team’s commitment to building a strong roster.
This trade could signal a strategic move for the Mariners as they look to bolster their bullpen ahead of key games. Ferguson’s quick integration into the team might also enhance the Mariners’ competitive edge as they advance through the season.
Recent discussions have suggested the Mariners might focus more on exploring trades with the Minnesota Twins, indicating a possible shift in their trading strategy. As they refine their roster, fans will be keen to see how these moves unfold and impact the team’s performance in the weeks ahead.