Mariners Secure Cole Wilcox in Trade with Rays
The Seattle Mariners have finalized a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays, acquiring right-hander Cole Wilcox in exchange for cash considerations. This move comes after the Rays designated Wilcox for assignment earlier this week.
Background on Cole Wilcox
Cole Wilcox, 26, originally joined the Rays in December 2020 as part of the trade that sent Blake Snell to the San Diego Padres. His early career faced a significant setback when he required Tommy John surgery in September 2021, which sidelined him for most of the 2022 season.
Minor League Performance
Despite challenges, the Rays continued to develop Wilcox as a starting pitcher in the minor leagues over the last two years. His statistics during this period indicate mixed results:
- Innings Pitched: 250 1/3
- Earned Run Average (ERA): 4.28
- Strikeout Rate: 19.8%
- Walk Rate: 8.3%
In 2025, Wilcox transitioned to primarily a relief role, which led to improvements in his performance:
- Innings Pitched as Reliever: 58 1/3 over 39 appearances
- ERA: 3.70
- Strikeout Rate: 25.1%
- Walk Rate: 10.8%
- Ground Ball Rate: 50.3%
Trade Implications for Mariners
The Mariners had recently cleared space on their 40-man roster due to several players becoming free agents. They have a strong history of effectively utilizing under-the-radar acquisitions like Wilcox. This suggests that he has the potential to thrive in a new environment.
With a full slate of minor league options available, Wilcox is expected to serve as a depth pitcher for the Mariners in Triple-A. The team hopes that they can build on his promising performance from his relief outing.
This acquisition could represent a strategic move as Seattle aims to enhance its pitching capabilities moving forward.
