In a notable development, the Seattle Mariners have reached an agreement with right-handed pitcher Dane Dunning on a minor league contract, as reported by Chris Cotillo from MassLive. This deal likely includes an invitation to join the major league spring training camp, providing Dunning with a valuable opportunity to showcase his skills.
Dunning enters this new chapter seeking to bounce back after experiencing a challenging season. The former first-round draft pick made only 12 appearances in the major leagues last year, playing for both the Atlanta Braves and Texas Rangers. Unfortunately, he struggled significantly, posting an alarming nearly 7.00 ERA over 20 and two-thirds innings pitched out of the bullpen. Throughout his career, Dunning has primarily served as a starting pitcher and continued to build on that role while competing in Triple-A, where he achieved slightly better results. In 69 and one-third innings there, he managed a 4.67 ERA, demonstrating a league-average strikeout rate of 21.6% alongside a 7.6% walk rate.
Now 31 years old, Dunning held a spot in the Rangers’ rotation from 2021 to 2023, achieving a career-high 172 and two-thirds innings pitched with a commendable 3.70 ERA during the Rangers' World Series-winning season in 2023. While he hasn’t consistently impressed with high velocity or strikeouts, Dunning has been recognized for his ability to throw strikes effectively and limit hard contact in his more successful seasons. However, over the past two years, home runs have increasingly become a concern for him.
Dunning’s versatility allows him to serve as either a long reliever or depth in the rotation for the Mariners’ Triple-A affiliate in Tacoma. Realistically, for him to earn a spot on the Opening Day roster, several injuries would likely need to occur during Spring Training. Given the current health of Seattle's top five starters, it seems improbable that Dunning would break into their rotation unless unforeseen circumstances arise, especially since many of the projected bullpen options are out of minor league options.
While the Mariners boast a solid front five in their starting rotation, their overall depth beyond those top pitchers is somewhat limited. Logan Evans and Emerson Hancock are next in line for consideration; however, both have struggled to make an impact at the major league level. Evans recorded a 4.32 ERA with below-average strikeout numbers in his initial 16 appearances, while Hancock found himself relegated to short relief towards the end of last season, finishing with a near 5.00 ERA over 31 starts.
Additionally, rookie Blas Castaño and swingman Jhonathan Diaz are included among the other depth starters currently on the 40-man roster.
What do you think about Dunning’s chances of revitalizing his career with the Mariners? Do you believe he can secure a spot on the roster, or will he face too much competition? Share your thoughts in the comments!
