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Another option to run an 8 man bullpen - including Wilhelmsen (since it seems that he may be key as the bridge between starter and pen) - is to utilize off days and the Rainiers to only keep four starers on the team at a time. Elias, Paxton, and Walker will have option years available, so, given the 'can't be recalled for 10-days' bit, you need 6 good starters to make it work. If Hultzen shows something, or Anthony Fernandez, or veteran starter scrap heap we eventually sign or re-sign (Chris Taylor), we can essentially have our 5th starter always ready to go 30 miles to the south. The "I-5th" Starter.
- Ben.