PEORIA, Ariz. — “Have Mariners fans seen the real Marco Gonzales as a pitcher?”
They’ve certainly heard general manager Jerry Dipoto and manager Scott Servais discuss all that he can/will be for this organization. Enthusiastic, optimistic and at times breathless in their praise for the pitcher they acquired in a largely unpopular trade for slugging outfielder Tyler O’Neill with the Cardinals last July, they’ve made sure to let people know that Gonzales will not only be part of the starting rotation, but should also be much better than the pitcher, who went 1-1 with a 5.40 ERA in seven starts and three relief appearances after being called up.