Mariners trade for Reds pitcher who had impressive Triple-A season in 2024
The Seattle Mariners may not have made a “big” move yet, but they continue to stockpile depth and better prepare themselves for the 2025 season.
On Monday, they acquired right-handed pitcher Casey Legumina from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for cash considerations. Legumina was designated for assignment on January 30.
The 27-year-old has yet to log significant MLB service time, but the reliever’s 2024 performance in Triple-A was nothing short of impressive. Pitching for the Louisville Bats — Cincinnati’s Triple-A affiliate — Legumina posted a 6-2 record with a 3.24 ERA, striking out 57 batters over 58 1/3 innings. Originally an eighth-round pick by the Minnesota Twins in 2021, he spent his first two professional seasons in their system before being traded to Cincinnati in exchange for Kyle Farmer.
While his big-league experience is limited, Legumina’s underlying numbers suggest real potential. His 68.7% strike rate and ability to generate nearly 30% of counts at 0-2 highlight his command and efficiency, which are traits the Mariners prioritize in their pitching staff. Over the course of his minor league career, he has logged over 200 innings with a 26% strikeout rate and an 8.6% walk rate. Seattle has a proven track record of refining pitchers who throw strikes and get ahead in counts, making Legumina an intriguing addition to their bullpen mix.
In a corresponding roster move, the Mariners have designated left-handed pitcher Jhonathan Diaz for assignment to make room on the 40-man roster.
Mariners continue to bolster roster on a budget with Casey Legumina
At this rate, the Mariners should consider reuniting with a reliever whose departure once torpedoed clubhouse chemistry as they remain steadfast in their commitment to strengthening their bullpen. Doubling down on their efforts to build a deep and reliable relief corps, Seattle’s front office has prioritized pitching depth — even as fans clamor for offensive upgrades. They recognize that a dominant bullpen is just as crucial to sustained success, and their approach has been anything but passive.
In recent weeks, a flurry of transactions has underscored the team’s willingness to make tough decisions, even if it means moving on from a recently acquired arm, like Tyler Jay, to create roster flexibility. Meanwhile, the Mariners have also re-signed a former trade acquisition in infielder Jorge Polanco after declining his option, further demonstrating their strategic roster maneuvering.
Whether it’s reinforcing the bullpen or bringing back key infield depth, Seattle is clearly leaving no stone unturned in its pursuit of a well-balanced, competitive roster — within their budget, of course.
