The Seattle Mariners have begun to have internal talks about converting relief pitcher Brandon Morrow to a starter. Morrow, much like Joba Chamberlain of the New York Yankees. Morrow also has starting experience from the Venezuelan winter league pitching for the Lara Cardinales. “We’ve been thinking about it,” coach John McLaren said before Sunday’s game. “We have not come to a conclusion about it yet.” Having the leagues worst record and a rotation in shambles will bring ideas like this up.
Unlike Chamberlain who is a set-up man, Morrow has primarily pitched in the 7th or 8th inning, pretty much where ever the Mariners have needed him most to get out of jams. What the team is fighting over thou, is how to convert him. Do they let him gradually stretch out in the majors like Joba, or do they send him to the minor leagues, Triple-A Tacoma, for a few weeks? “We’ve talked about both scenarios,” McLaren said. “There’s no decision; I’m not sure there’s that much of a difference.” I’m sure the team will take a wait and see approach, meaning they’ll wait to see how Chamberlain reacts to the major league method of stretching out.
There is still the possibility thou that Morrow never moves in to the rotation. Morrow hasn’t been in formed of any move yet. “Starting in Venezuela was a good experience, and I enjoyed it. I’ve never got into the starting routine, but it seems like something I’d like to. Still, if I stay in the bullpen, I’m OK with that.” If the transformation never occurs, Morrow will eventually wind up as a closer. His stuff is just that good, he’s definitely got closer material written all over him. The one problem, won’t happen with the Mariners, they’ve got one of the best in JJ Putz. “Pitching out of the bullpen is good, but we’ve got one of the best closers in the game in J.J.,” Morrow said.
The only question I have is does he have enough pitches to be a starter? Being primarily used as a reliever we’ve never seen much except that eye popping fastball. Does he have the arsenal, or will he have to learn some new pitches?
Here’s a link to seattlepi.com, they’ve got a ton of Mariners notes for you. Photo courtesy of minorleaguebaseball.com.
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