Rafael Soriano: Signed as a free agent
outfielder back in 1996 out of the Dominican Republic, this 6-foot-1, 175
pound has since made a conversion to the mound and now is looking more and
more like a pitcher who could be expected to eventually be a big
contributor for the Mariners.
Soriano spent his first two pro
seasons as a batter before making the switch to pitching. He has a live
arm, capable of hitting in the mid-90s with his fastball. He is working on
a slider has his number two pitch and a changeup as his third. Neither of
these last two are near his fastball at this point. Since he has only been
pitching for two years, this should be expected.
In 2000, Soriano
had his best season to date. He pitched for Low-A Wisconsin in the Midwest
League. Soriano made 21 starts and posted some impressive numbers, going
8-4 with 2.87 ERA, 122 innings pitched, 97 hits allowed, 50 walks, and 90
strikeouts. If he can master one of both of his secondary pitches, the
walk total should improve.
As long as the likes of Ryan Anderson
and their other young pitchers come back healthy, the Mariners could have
as much quality young pitching talent as anyone in the majors, a far cry
from their mid-1990s teams. With this depth, there should be no reason to
rush Soriano. He has been a starter throughout his pitching career but
will probably be best suited for a relief role. If he can get his slider
on par with his fastball, then you could have the making of the Mariners
future closer.
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