2011 Mariners Spring Training
10 Players to Watch
1. Michael Pineda, SP
A huge imposing figure on the mound, his updated physical lists him at 6-7 260. He is no longer the tall lanky pitcher that first came into the Mariners system 5 years ago. Pineda is the best pitching prospect the M’s have had since Felix, and the #16 prospect in baseball according to Baseball America. He is ready for the big leagues right now, and will probably be an above average pitcher as soon as he arrives. He almost assuredly would make the opening day squad, but the super-two rule (Extra year of control without arbitration) makes his call up unlikely until late May or June. While his fastball consistently hits mid to high 90’s, and throws a plus slider, along with strong command, he needs to show better consistency on the mound. If he can improve his split against lefty hitters possibly by further developing his cutter, he could become a legit #1 pitcher.