Five Roster Moves in Five Days: Mariners Finalize Spring Training Decisions Before Opening Day
The Seattle Mariners aren't wasting any time trimming the fat. With opening day just around the corner, the M's made five more roster moves on Sunday to get down to business. Three players got optioned to Triple-A Tacoma, two more got reassigned to minor league camp, and the spring training roster is now sitting at 31 players. This is the final stretch before the real games begin.
The Backup Catcher Decision is Done
One of the bigger questions heading into spring has been settled: Mitch Garver will be Cal Raleigh's backup catcher. Jhonny Pereda, the 29-year-old acquired from the Minnesota Twins for cash back in January, didn't cut it. He was supposed to compete for the role, but batted just .200 in 25 Cactus League at-bats this spring. Game over. Garver gets the nod.
Young Pitching Takes a Step Back
Cole Wilcox and Yosver Zulueta both got optioned to Tacoma after impressive springs that just weren't quite enough to stick around right now. Wilcox, 26, showed real flashes after coming over from the Tampa Bay Rays for cash last November. He struck out 11 batters across 8 and a third innings in eight appearances while allowing four runs, six hits and four walks. Manager Dan Wilson raved about him earlier this month, saying "his stuff has been tremendous" and that he "has opened some eyes." But he'll develop in the minors. Zulueta, 28, also looked solid, punching out 10 batters across seven innings in eight appearances with three runs, six hits and three walks allowed. He came from the Cincinnati Reds in a January trade.
Prospects and Minor Leaguers Move On
Connor Joe, the 33-year-old who signed a minor league deal with Seattle in February, got reassigned to minor league camp despite an impressive spring. He batted .362 with a homer, a triple and six doubles in 47 at-bats. Brock Rodden, the 25-year-old infield prospect ranked No. 18 in the organization by MLB Pipeline, also got reassigned. The 2023 fifth-round pick out of Wichita State put up strong numbers in spring with a .361 average, two homers, a triple and a double in 36 at-bats, but he'll continue his development elsewhere.
The Mariners are locked in and ready to go. Opening day is almost here.
🐦 What fans are saying on X
See the latest reactions and highlights from Seattle fans about Seattle Sports.
View X conversation →🔮 Trade Seattle Sports on Kalshi
Did you know you can trade on Seattle sports outcomes on Kalshi, the only federally regulated prediction market in the US? Kalshi is available in Washington state. Bet on Seahawks games, Mariners season outcomes, Kraken playoff runs, and more. No sportsbook account needed.
💰 Limited offer: Get a FREE $10 when you sign up!
👉 Sign up at Kalshi.com and use promo code SEATTLEONTAP to claim your free $10.
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.