Surprise Arizona Fall League standout could revive a key Mariners bullpen pipeline

Sodo Mojo's Paul Taylor highlights relief pitcher Adam Smith as a potential solution to the Seattle Mariners' recent bullpen struggles. After the Mariners' bullpen fell to 22nd in MLB team ERA during the 2026 season, the club is searching for new developmental talent. Taylor argues that Smith, who joined the organization in May after pitching in independent ball, could revive Seattle's historical pipeline of unearthing reliable relief arms.

The 26-year-old right-hander posted a 1.67 ERA in High-A Everett before reaching Double-A Arkansas and earning a spot in the Arizona Fall League with the Peoria Javelinas. While Smith has experienced mixed results in the AFL, Taylor highlights his 96-mph velocity, quality slider, and praise from The Athletic's Keith Law as reasons he could contribute to Seattle's major league bullpen as early as 2027.