Five Players Down: Mariners Making Final Cuts as Opening Day Arrives
The Seattle Mariners are clearing out their spring training roster and it is happening fast. With opening day just around the corner, the M's made five roster moves on Sunday, optioning three players to Triple-A Tacoma and reassigning two others to minor league camp. The spring training roster is now sitting at 31 players, and the real season is almost here.
The Optioning Moves: Three Headed to Tacoma
The Mariners optioned catcher Jhonny Pereda, right-handed reliever Cole Wilcox and right-handed reliever Yosver Zulueta to Triple-A Tacoma on Sunday. This is the roster churn you expect in late March, but it matters. Pereda, the 29-year-old acquired from the Minnesota Twins for cash back in January, was brought in to compete for the backup catcher job. That competition is over. Mariners insider Shannon Drayer reported that veteran Mitch Garver will break camp as Cal Raleigh's backup. Pereda batted .200 in 25 Cactus League at-bats this spring, and that tells you everything.
Wilcox and Zulueta both showed flashes in spring training, but not quite enough to make the cut. Wilcox, 26, struck out 11 batters across 8 1/3 innings in eight Cactus League appearances while allowing four runs, six hits and four walks. Manager Dan Wilson said earlier this month that his stuff has been tremendous and he has opened some eyes. Zulueta, 28, struck out 10 batters across seven innings in eight Cactus League appearances while allowing three runs, six hits and three walks. Both were acquired for cash or trades over the offseason, but the spring didn't seal the deal.
Connor Joe and Brock Rodden Sent Down
The Mariners also reassigned first baseman and outfielder Connor Joe and infield prospect Brock Rodden to minor league camp. Joe, 33, signed a minor league contract with Seattle in February and actually had a strong spring, batting .362 with one home run, one triple and six doubles in 47 Cactus League at-bats. Still not enough to make the opening day roster. Rodden, 25, is ranked by MLB Pipeline as the Mariners' No. 18 prospect. The 2023 fifth-round draft pick out of Wichita State hit .361 with two homers, one triple and one double in 36 Cactus League at-bats. Kid can hit, but he will get his time.
The Mariners are ready to roll. Opening day is coming and Seattle is locked in.
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This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.