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We liked Erasmo, Paxton and secret weapon Brandon Maurer last spring. Plus we had Walker starting in AAA. Erasmo is healthy, Paxton is ready to break out, and Maurer finished September with 3 very fine starts. I see no reason to worry regarding the rotation. We are better situated than we were last year at this time, even with the loss of Hultzen. Felix-Kuma-Erasmo-Paxton-Walker-Baker-Maurer is a very nice 7 to make 5 situation. I can see why the Mariners didn't fret over an overpay for a #3, and didn't stress over Capuano. They have a blueprint to follow. It's taking a little longer than expected perhaps, but these things happen.
Similarly, I think they are more sanguine over their lineup than most. They probably feel Ackley, Smoak, and Saunders, Miller, Zunino are on track for significant improvements. Everyone is a year more experienced, and we have a new manager. We're in a good place.