Heathcliff Slocumb made his major league debut in 1991 and had only recorded two saves before the 1995 season. In 1995, Slocumb converted 32 saves out of 38 opportunities. He spent time in Chicago, Cleveland and Philadelphia before getting traded to the Boston Red Sox before the 1996 season began.
In 1996, Slocumb posted a 5-5 record with a 3.02 ERA and recorded 31 saves in 39 chances. He also recorded 88 strikeouts in 83 1/3rd innings. He also walked 55 batters. While those numbers won’t strike anyone as a lock down closer, the Mariners were willing to trade for him the following season.