The Seattle Mariners have made a big move to bolster their pitching staff, acquiring right-hander Dominic Leone from the Los Angeles Angels. Leone, who was acquired in exchange for cash considerations, is expected to join the Mariners bullpen immediately.
Leone, 26, has been a reliable arm out of the bullpen for the Angels since 2015. In that time, he has compiled a 3.53 ERA and 1.27 WHIP in 146 appearances. He has also shown the ability to handle both right-handed and left-handed batters, with a career .231 batting average against righties and .221 against lefties.
Leone has also been a valuable asset in high-leverage situations, as evidenced by his career 2.77 ERA in the seventh inning or later. He has also been a workhorse, averaging more than two innings per appearance in 2017 and 2018.
The Mariners have been looking to add depth to their bullpen, and Leone should provide just that. He will join a group of relievers that includes Hunter Strickland, Cory Gearrin, and Anthony Swarzak.
Leone is expected to make an immediate impact on the Mariners bullpen, and should help the team continue its push for a playoff spot. With his addition, the Mariners have added another reliable arm to their bullpen and have improved their chances of making a deep postseason run.