Mariners Bolster Bullpen with Signing of Ex-Orioles Pitcher Shintaro Fujinami
The Seattle Mariners are taking a chance on a high-upside reliever, signing Shintaro Fujinami to a minor-league contract with an invitation to spring training. The move signals the Mariners’ commitment to finding untapped potential as they aim to strengthen their bullpen for the 2025 season.
Shintaro Fujinami: A Flamethrower with Untapped Potential
Known for his blistering fastball, which has clocked in at an eye-popping 103 mph, Fujinami brings a mix of raw talent and past struggles. The 30-year-old right-hander made his MLB debut in 2023 after a successful decade in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), where he was an All-Star from 2013 to 2016.
In his first MLB season, Fujinami appeared in 64 games, including seven starts, posting a 7-8 record with a 7.18 ERA over 72 innings. While his high 30.1% whiff rate (77th percentile) showcased his ability to miss bats, his 12.6% walk rate exposed command issues that hindered his consistency.
A Rocky Road to Seattle
Fujinami’s MLB journey has been marked by ups and downs:
- 2023: After starting the season with the Oakland Athletics, he was traded to the Baltimore Orioles, where he displayed flashes of potential but struggled in the final stretch.
- 2024: Signed by the New York Mets, his season was derailed by a shoulder injury, limiting him to minor-league appearances. Despite the setback, Fujinami posted a promising 1.85 ERA over 24 1/3 innings, albeit with continued command issues.
- Winter Ball Revival: Pitching for los Gigantes de Carolina in Puerto Rico, he posted a 3.05 ERA and a 26.7% strikeout rate, reigniting interest in his high-velocity arsenal.
A Perfect Fit for Seattle’s Bullpen
The Mariners’ bullpen, already featuring standout relievers like Andrés Muñoz, offers Fujinami a chance to join a competitive group. Alongside arms such as Collin Snider, Trent Thornton, and Gregory Santos, Fujinami’s five-pitch mix—including his splitter and slider—could be a valuable addition.
Seattle has a proven track record of developing relievers, and the organization’s expertise may be exactly what Fujinami needs to unlock his potential.
The Mariners’ Vision: Low-Risk, High-Reward
For the Mariners, Fujinami represents a low-risk, high-reward gamble. If he can harness his control and build on his winter ball success, he could become a pivotal piece in Seattle’s quest to compete in the AL West.
“Shintaro Fujinami and the Mariners have agreed on a contract, sources say. Minor league deal with an invitation to spring training,” reported Jon Morosi on X (formerly Twitter).
Fan and Analyst Reactions
The signing has generated buzz among Mariners fans, who are eager to see if the team’s renowned pitching development staff can help Fujinami thrive. Analysts have also noted that this move aligns with Seattle’s approach of identifying high-upside talent at a bargain price.
Looking Ahead: Spring Training and Beyond
Fujinami’s performance in spring training will be closely watched, as the Mariners evaluate whether he can carve out a role in the bullpen. With his electric fastball and potential to generate whiffs, Fujinami has the tools to make an impact—if he can rein in his control.
Conclusion
The Mariners’ decision to sign Shintaro Fujinami is a calculated risk that could pay significant dividends. With a fresh start in Seattle and the chance to refine his craft, Fujinami has the opportunity to become a key contributor to a bullpen poised for success.
Mariners fans, keep an eye on Fujinami this spring—he might just be the surprise weapon Seattle needs!
