Ryan Feierabend

Feierabend made eight late-season starts for the Mariners and wasn't particularly sharp. He isn't a fastball pitcher, so he needs impeccable control. More often than not, that wasn't the case, as -- even with a high BABIP (.377) -- he was far too hittable with 24 extra-base hits, including seven home runs, among his 59 hits allowed in just 39.2 innings. If he's not packaged in an offseason trade, he'll have a shot at the 2009 rotation in spring, but more likely he'll wind up back at Triple-A Tacoma for more seasoning. He's still just 23, and a lefty.

Feierabend made 13 appearances, including nine starts, for the Mariners last season but struggled mightily with his control. He struck out 27 and walked 23 in 49.1 innings and allowed 13.3 H/9IP, which all added to an 8.03 ERA. A finesse lefty, Feierabend doesn't have a big fastball, so he must rely on excellent control. It's a tough day when he doesn't have it. He probably had too many tough days last season to win a spot in the rotation this year, but he'll have a shot in spring training alongside a handful of other hopefuls. Only 22, Feierabend would benefit from more minor league development.

Feierabend is one of Seattle's top pitching prospects and could get a shot at the open fifth spot in the 2007 rotation. Although his fastball is only in the 88-92 mph range, the finesse lefty still struck out nearly 7.5 batters per nine innings at Double-A San Antonio last year. He sports a good curveball and a plus changeup, which he used effectively as a control pitcher to limit his walks.

A finesse lefty, Feierabend has shown he can survive in the tough environment of the California League (3.88 ERA in 29 starts). He should move up to Double-A in 2006, which will be a more difficult test for him. His control is very good (2.4/1 K/BB ratio) and he knows how to pitch, but has a small margin for error due to his mediocre fastball.

Feierabend was a third round pick in 2003 out of high school. The lefty threw up to 90 mph in his draft year but at 6-foot-3, 190 pounds and 17, many scouts feel the velocity is on the low side and he’ll increase as he grows. He has a strong changeup to compliment, and his curveball is vastly improved coming into 2004 while his slider still needs work He’s very young and largely unproven but may be a real sleeper to emerge as a top–prospect within the next two seasons.