The Seattle Mariners' pitching prospects, Kade Anderson and Ryan Sloan, are turning heads at their first big league camp with a poise that belies their years. On the practice fields, these young arms are not just holding their own; they're making a statement.
Facing hitters like Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodríguez in live batting practice, Anderson and Sloan have been putting up zeros, a feat that’s impressive enough. But it's their confident post-practice comments that really grab attention.
Anderson, who hasn’t yet pitched in a professional game, and Sloan, just a year out of high school, aren't shy about their ambitions. “I’m just here to strike out batters,” Anderson declared.
Sloan added, “My goal is to punch tickets.” These aren’t just empty words; they reflect a mindset that’s rare among rookies.
Mariners GM Justin Hollander appreciates their approach. “If you have the ability, why not use it?”
he said. “Get ahead in the count and finish guys quickly.”
Pitching coach Pete Woodworth echoes this sentiment, noting their hunger and focus. “They’re not here just to mingle; they’re here to compete,” Woodworth said.
“It’s refreshing to hear.”
While some might see their confidence as audacious, Woodworth sees it as genuine self-belief. “They’re comfortable saying it because they believe it,” he said. Both Anderson and Sloan have different paths but share a true confidence that shines through on the mound.
Their approach to striking out batters is strategic. Sloan, ranked No. 33 by MLB Pipeline, knows the importance of getting ahead in the count.
Anderson, ranked No. 21 and a key player in LSU’s national title run, emphasizes an attack mindset. “The best thing you can do as a pitcher is strike people out,” Hollander said.
“And to do that, you have to throw strike one and stay ahead.”
Although neither will start the season with the Mariners, both have the potential to make their MLB debuts if needed. For now, they’re honing their skills in Peoria.
Their live batting practices are less about who they retire and more about their execution and composure. “Watching them execute pitch after pitch has been a pleasure,” Hollander noted.
“They have great stuff and a unique arsenal.”
Woodworth is focused on their development. For Anderson, it’s about consistency.
“Pitchers often try to do too much,” Woodworth explained. “The key is to trust your stuff and maintain your approach, no matter the situation.”
Sloan’s challenge is refining his two-strike execution. “He’s shown he can throw strikes,” Woodworth said.
“Now, it’s about executing those two-strike pitches. The best strikeout pitchers aren’t just about stuff; they’re about execution.”
Both Anderson and Sloan are set to make their Cactus League debuts this spring. These outings will be their first taste of game action, and they’ve earned the chance to show what they can do. What happens next is up to them.
“These kids have a mature thought process,” Woodworth praised. “They’re excelling and ready for the next challenge. We’ll keep pushing them, and they’ll keep impressing.”