As the vice-president of the Tommy Romero fan club, the deal to bring Álex Colomé and Denard Span to the Mariners was a bittersweet one. It undeniably made Seattle better in 2018, but trading starters for relievers will always rub me the wrong way. Fortunately, Denard Span – the seeming salary relief of the deal, has been a boon companion. His 112 wRC+ and patience-inspired .290/.327/.441 line since joining the Mariners has been a huge asset, particularly in a lineup that is more swing-happy than Jon Favreau.
Colomé has had a less seamless transition into his role with the Mariners.