The first priority for the Mariners in determining who fills the role as the bullpen’s second lefty is, really, the only priority:
"Who is going to help us get off to a good start?" manager Scott Servais said. "Who is going to help us win games in Houston and when we go to Anaheim right out of the chute?"
For example: Ariel Miranda might be a better long-term fit in the rotation, but if he’s the best option to pair with match-up lefty Marc Rzepczynski, then Miranda will open the season in the big-league bullpen.