Mariners Acquire Left-Handed Relief Pitcher from Pirates

Pirates Trade Reliever Caleb Ferguson to Mariners

There was no deadline buzz about Ferguson, but it was clear he would be dealt. He’s under an expiring contract, and contenders are always seeking left-handed relief help. It’s also no surprise he’s headed to Seattle, a favorite trade partner of Pirates general manager Ben Cherington.

The Pirates signed Ferguson, 29, to a one-year, $3 million contract last January. It was a deal that didn’t seem to address a pressing need at the time, but Ferguson would soon prove the naysayers wrong by providing stellar relief in high-leverage situations. In 45 games, he’s 2-2 with a 3.74 ERA, 3.14 FIP, and 1.085 WHIP, holding opponents to a .214/.297/.286 slash line and a 25.4 per cent hard-hit rate. As recently as July 13, Ferguson’s ERA was 2.70. A recent ugly two-game stretch where he gave up six earned runs in 1 1/3 innings distorted his present ERA. He righted himself in his last two appearances, pitching two scoreless innings.

As expected, Ferguson has been better against left-handed batters, holding them to a .167 average. He’s been good enough against right-handers to navigate most innings unscathed. Right-handed hitters are hitting .250 against Ferguson. The Mariners lack a left-hander in their bullpen, so Ferguson should step right into a prominent role.

Pirates Acquire Prospect Jeter for Ferguson

Martinez, 19, was the Mariners’ No. 13 prospect. The six-foot-four, 180-pound right-handed starter pitched in Single-A Modesto, where he’s had a rough time of it. He’s 2-6 with a 6.18 ERA and 1.612 WHIP in 16 games. It seems control problems are at least partially responsible. He’s walked 5.5 batters per nine innings. He was an international signee in 2023. Mariners scouts liked his athleticism and velocity. Along with Oneil Cruz, Martinez gives the Pirates organization two players named after stars from the Joe Torre Yankees era. Pirates fans have to hope that some of that greatness rubs off on their favorite team.