Mariners: James Paxton encourages in 2021 Cactus League debut

James Paxton took the Mariners on a trip down memory lane on Sunday, as he impressed against the Brewers during his first appearance of 2021.

After rejoining the Mariners, James Paxton admitted he could have signed for more elsewhere, but Seattle was where he wanted to be. If Sunday was any indication, he already looks like he is settling back in with the ball club which originally selected him in the fourth round of the 2010 MLB draft.

Paxton made his 2021 Cactus League debut versus the Milwaukee Brewers, and gave an early reminder of what he is capable of. He threw 4.1 innings, giving up one run on two hits, while walking two batters.

What stood out most was the 32-year-old’s arm strength, as he had eight strikeouts and touched 96-97 mph. This is particularly encouraging, when you consider he averaged 93 mph on his fastball last year before his season was ended by injury.

Talking of injury, it figured that Paxton would be slightly rusty, as was the case in the first inning. He gave up a leadoff double, which eventually led to the Brewers’ only score of the game.

In fairness to the Ladner, British Columbia native, the double came about as a result of Jake Fraley losing the ball in the sun. Regardless, you could argue it was actually a good thing to face some early adversity.

After the run, Paxton settled down and proved to be excellent. He retired 12 of the last 13 batters he faced on the day, which included his eight strikeouts, with the one batter getting on base via a walk.

The Canadian’s 2021 debut was long overdue, with the delayed caused by getting a work visa arranged. This resulted in having to participate in simulated games on the back fields, while awaiting approval of his visa.

Paxton spoke to the media following the game, and was asked about finally getting the chance to step on the mound in an actual game. He said:

“It was great. It has been a while since (pitching) a real game, facing some different colored jerseys, but I really enjoyed it. It was fun being out there with the guys.”

Paxton was also asked about overcoming the early challenge in the first inning. He mentioned feeling the adrenaline and said:

“I was definitely fired up for it. I think (during) the first inning I was kind of feeling my way through a little bit, but then once the second inning came around I started letting it rip and feeling really good.”

It’s extremely early and caution will remain the key. However, there is genuine optimism the Mariners have at least one bona fide starter to go along with Marco Gonzales in the rotation.

Certainly, you only have to ask Paxton himself, to reinforce this belief. Talking about all the trials and tribulations faced last season, he said:

“This is what I’ve been working for. Last year was tough for me…my body wasn’t in the right place but I went to work this offseason and I feel like I’m in a really good place now. Today, seeing those numbers up on the board, just confirmed that I’m back to being myself.”

Other notes from Sunday’s 3-1 win over the Brewers:

• Jarred Kelenic hit a home run in the second inning and has a 1.212 OPS this spring.
• Along with Kelenic, Julio Rodríguez and Jantzen Witte also had solo home runs.
• The Mariners’ bullpen combined for 4.2 scoreless innings after Paxton left the game.

What was your main takeaway from Paxton’s performance on Sunday? What kind of success do you predict he will have with the Mariners this coming season? Let us know in the comments section below.