Mariners Cut Ties with Former 1st-Round Pick

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The Seattle Mariners have designated right-handed pitcher Jackson Kowar for assignment, cutting ties with the former first-round pick they acquired in a trade. Kowar, 29, was the Kansas City Royals' first-round pick in 2018 but has struggled to establish himself at the major league level, throwing just 17 innings for the Mariners last season with an 8.47 ERA.

Why it matters

The Mariners' decision to part ways with Kowar highlights the challenges of developing young pitching talent and the tough roster decisions teams face as they build their rosters for the upcoming season. Kowar's inability to stick with the Mariners could open up opportunities for other pitchers in the organization to earn a spot on the 40-man roster.

The details

The Mariners made the move to designate Kowar for assignment in order to clear a roster spot for catcher Jhonny Pereda, whom they acquired in a trade with the Minnesota Twins. Kowar has been traded twice already in his young career, first from the Royals to the Atlanta Braves and then from the Braves to the Mariners. He has struggled with injuries, including Tommy John surgery and a right shoulder impingement, which have limited his ability to establish himself at the major league level.

• Kowar debuted in the majors in 2021.
• Kowar recovered from Tommy John surgery at the start of the 2024 season.
• Kowar dealt with a right shoulder impingement last year.

What’s next

If a team likes Kowar enough, he could be claimed off waivers and traded again in the coming days.