Mariners acquire reliever Caleb Ferguson

The Mariners are trading for left-handed pitcher Caleb Ferguson from the Pirates.

Mariners finalize trade for Caleb Ferguson

The Seattle Mariners have officially acquired left-handed reliever Caleb Ferguson from the Pittsburgh Pirates. In conjunction with this trade, the Mariners have designated right-handed pitcher Collin Snider for assignment. Ferguson, who is currently under a one-year, $3 million contract, has been performing well this season, pitching 43 1/3 innings with a 3.74 ERA and a strikeout rate of 19.3%. Notably, he has excelled in keeping hard contact to a minimum, recording the lowest average exit velocity in Major League Baseball this season. The Pirates will receive 19-year-old right-hander Jeter Martinez as part of the deal.

This trade reflects a strategic move by the Mariners to strengthen their bullpen as they seek to improve their playoff chances. Ferguson's ability to handle both left-handed and right-handed batters adds depth to a team that has relied heavily on Gabe Speier for left-handed pitching. Although Ferguson is not the high-impact arm the Mariners may have originally sought, he could be a crucial piece in a series of acquisitions aimed at enhancing the bullpen. This move could also indicate the Mariners' willingness to invest in more talent as they pursue potential playoff success.

Highlights

Ferguson's arrival may be a stepping stone for the Mariners as they reshape their pitching staff.