MLB Rumors: Taijuan Walker’s return could dictate Mariners’ plans at trade deadline?
By Hayden Kane
The Seattle Mariners figure to be active between now and July 31st. They tout a solid pitching staff that follows the lead of ace Felix Hernandez. They have enjoyed a couple winning streaks this season thanks to upticks in their offensive production. One figures, then, that a boost in either area of their roster could poise them for a playoff run, even in a tough American League West.
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A key development one direction or the other will play out in the coming weeks as Taijuan Walker, the top pitching prospect in the Mariners’ system, finally makes his 2014 debut after missing all of the action thus far with a shoulder injury.
Jon Morosi of Fox Sports reports that Walker’s return, and how he performs in his first few starts, could play a huge role in what the Mariners do.
Taijuan Walker's next few starts are key to Mariners' trade deadline plans. If he throws well, they have a No. 1 chip for any deal.
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) June 23, 2014
That's not to say Mariners are willing to move Walker. But if he starts looking like the 2013 version of himself, they'll have options.
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) June 23, 2014
The Mariners would have to tread very carefully if they explored deals for Walker, of course. He is still so highly regarded and has only made three big league appearances. You would hate to jump the gun and trade a top-shelf talent like that only to see him click with another franchise.
Translation: the Mariners probably should only take a deal for Walker seriously if it involves that David Price fella.