PEORIA, Ariz. — Reliever Tony Zych, who has appeared in 70 games for the Mariners over the past three seasons, was placed on waivers Saturday for the purpose of unconditional release.
The decision to cut Zych, 27, was a surprise, but he has yet to pitch this spring. Zych ended last season on the disabled list because of a flexor-bundle strain and had been working back slowly from that injury.
Last season, the hard-throwing Zych appeared in 45 games for the Mariners, compiling a 6-3 record with a 2.66 ERA, striking out 35 in 40 2/3 innings.