2007: Why the hell did they have to do that?

[Porter]

In 2007, we expected the Mariners to be at the bottom of the heap. Their Rotation was supposed to be awful. The offense was old and we had to rely on their damn great defense. Turns out for most of '07, the Mariners overachieved their way to playoff race for most of the season. When Ichiro's extension seemed unlikely to happen, Seattle wondered if they were actually trying to win now like they promised. Ichiro resigned to let us focus on saving the Sonics. Here is an overview on the Mariners this season;

Offense:
This offense was very good when it came to hitting for contact. Both Ichiro (.351) and Vidro (.312) hit over .310 this season. Seven of the nine regulars hit over .270 (yes including Beltre). But while they had great contact, they had the combined patience of LA traffic during rush hour. Ichiro's batting average would have been 5th among the 25 man roster. Jose Lopez's OBP was an absymal .284. This combined with their lack of pop in the lineup, cue Richie Sexson, eventually did them in.

Pitching:
Raise your hand if you thought that Miguel Batista would lead the M's in victories? *hear crickets* You heard it, MIGUEL BATISTA led the M's with 16 wins. He was a decent pickup considering the money he was given. Until you look and see the 1.52 WHIP he had this season. It was a common theme with the rotation. Every pitcher allowed more hits than innings pitched. To add to that pain, Jarrod Washburn had a .268 OPP BA and led the rotation. Felix proved right now hes a #2 in this stage of his career. He will get better with time. A healthy 2008 will do wonders for his development. The bullpen was the strength of 2007 and looks to be the same in 2008. JJ Putz is a top 5 closer in MLB, probably had stats wise the best season in '07. Sherill, Rowland-Smith and O'Flarethy will help lead the way in 08. But for that to happen, THEY HAVE TO GET A COUPLE OF SOLID STARTERS.

Defensive:
Defensively they were a very solid team only allowing 95 errors. Jose Lopez had a .987 Field. Pct. They do need to address the defense in LF. Can Adam Jones fit the bill over Raul Ibanez? I think this can happen. Beltre and Ichiro were their usual selves in the field. Out side of that nobody really stands out.


2007 did show signs of life. But it also left a lot of questions on how 2008 will turn out as well. Bavasi has to prove he can spend the money in the right places. He has the budget but cant put it together. If they fail next year, he will probably be axed.

[Kingdom]

"Why the Hell did they have to pay Jeff Weaver" ...? Inquiring minds must know.

[Porter]

I wonder that to this day. Everyone hates him and are glad hes long gone.