In layman’s terms, the Mariners bought a reliever from San Diego. This time, they bought a 26-year-old Matt Wisler, a long-time starting pitcher prospect who has begun a transition to the bullpen this season.
As a starter, Wisler was a command and feel pitcher, relying on throwing strikes and missing few bats. This season in San Diego’s bullpen, he began throwing his slider more than ever and has seen his swing-and-misses go through the roof.
In 29 innings for the Padres, Wisler posted a 10.55 K/9 and a 3.65 xFIP. He also posted a solid 43.4% groundball rate.