Mariners hold their own against Dodgers in two-game series

2) Graveman continues to excel

We’ve written about how its been a team-effort for one of the best bullpens in the Majors up to this point of the season. However, Kendall Graveman is worthy of some individual focus at least for this one takeaway.

The story of Graveman truly is a remarkable one. At one time a starter in the Majors, this changed in 2018 when he first developed symptoms which eventually led to the diagnosis of a benign bone tumor in his cervical spine.

Despite the diagnosis, which came while the 30-year-old was recovering from Tommy John surgery, he declared his intention to continue pitching. However, there would at least have to be a compromise.

As per ESPN, even though Doctors advised the tumor would not grow or get any worse, it would cause inflammation and some pain. As a result, Gravemen made the move to the bullpen.

There was a period of transition and some struggles for the 2013 eighth round draft pick during his first season in Seattle. This year however, he has been nothing short of sensational.

This was perfectly illustrated on Monday night versus the Dodgers, as Gravemen entered the game with one out and two men on base. To add to the high pressure situation, he came to the mound facing Justin Tuner, who has been one of the best hitters in the Majors so far this season.

However, Graveman was more than ready for the challenge, as he struck Turner out. He then got Seattle out of the half inning, thanks in large part to a stunning catch by Dylan Moore from a Will Smith hit seemingly destined to tie the game.

Inspired by Moore’s catch, the relief pitcher raised his game in the eighth, to produce a 1-2-3 inning. As a result, he has yet to give up a single earned run in 7.2 combined innings over the course of six appearances this season.

In addition, Graveman has only allowed two walks, to go along with eight strikeouts. That he has managed all this while pitching through ongoing discomfort, makes it even more impressive.

The Alexander City, Alabama native was asked by the media after the game if he misses being a starter. Despite the way he’s being pitching, he said:

“Absolutely not, it’s been fun. The adrenaline’s a lot different; it’s a different ball game coming out of the bullpen.

“Mentality-wise, I think I really fit down there. The game’s really slow for me out there, even in those moments, being able to slow the game down … I like it.”

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