The Seattle Mariners have made a roster move to bolster their bullpen, promoting right-handed pitcher Matt Festa and optioning right-hander Darren McCaughan.
Festa, 25, was drafted by the Mariners in the 11th round of the 2017 MLB Draft out of East Stroudsburg University. He has split time between Double-A Arkansas and Triple-A Tacoma this season, posting a 3.86 ERA in 24 appearances. Festa has struck out 32 batters in 32.2 innings pitched while walking just nine.
McCaughan, 23, was drafted by the Mariners in the 12th round of the 2018 MLB Draft out of Long Beach State University. He has split time between Double-A Arkansas and Triple-A Tacoma this season, posting a 4.50 ERA in 21 appearances. McCaughan has struck out 37 batters in 36 innings pitched while walking just eight.
The Mariners are hoping that Festa can provide a spark to their bullpen as they make a push for the playoffs. Festa has been impressive in the minor leagues this season and should be able to provide some much-needed relief for the Mariners.
McCaughan, on the other hand, will head back to the minors to continue to develop his skills. He has shown promise this season and should be able to make an impact at the major league level in the near future.
The Mariners have made a smart move by promoting Festa and optioning McCaughan. Festa should be able to provide immediate help to the bullpen while McCaughan can continue to work on his game in the minors. This move should help the Mariners as they make a push for the playoffs.
