At the beginning of the 2008 season hopes were high. The Mariners who barely missed the playoffs the previous year had just made the deal that would fix everything, they got Erik Bedard. Then the 2008 season happened, which seemed to be a domino of typical Seattle sports pain.
Brandon Morrow, who was poised to take over a starting spot in the rotation, was quickly sent to the bullpen after the M's acquired Bedard. Morrow didn't have to wait long as the injury bug bit the Mariners hard. When closer J.J. Putz went down with injury Morrow was given the green light to save games.
As a reliever Morrow was dominate going 1-2 and converting 10 of 12 saves with a 1.47 in 36.2 innings pitched. The fireballer struck out 37 while only walking 15.
After Putz was "healthy" again Morrow spent August converting himself into a starter.
Was Morrow ready for it?
In five games Morrow gave up 18 runs, all earned in a mere 28 innings. He did strike out 28 but his batting average against skyrocketed from .143 to .212
So which Morrow can we expect this upcoming season? The one that resembles Putz or Jeff Weaver?
Morrow's five starts were more like Weaver, while closing was more like Putz. In his first start, against the NY Yankees, Morrow gave up one run in 7 and two-thirds innings while striking out eight but just like the Weaver we know and love gave up six runs and eight hits against the Kansas City Royals.
Where should Morrow go? Back to the pen or hold down the rotation?
In a interview Saturday, Morrow stated that he would do what's best for the team.
Although new GM Jack Zduriencik declined to comment on Morrow's position, he may have tipped his hand during the Putz trade.
Trading Putz left the Mariners without their closer, but they may be gotten just the man to fill Putz shoes during the trade.
Reliever Aaron Heilman, who began his career as a starter, has shined as a reliever for the most part in the media highlights of New York.
In a pitchers park and without the pressure of the New York media Heilman should be able to focus and do what he loves, pitch.
Give Morrow the opportunity to showcase his 101 mph fastball and wicked stuff, and let Mariner fans see why we picked him over 2008 Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum.
