Seattle Mariners Place 5-Year Veteran Catcher On Waivers

The Seattle Mariners have designated catcher Seby Zavala for assignment, marking the third time this season the veteran backstop has been removed from the active roster. 

Zavala, 31, was initially recalled earlier in the week after ace Luis Castillo was placed on the 15-day injured list with a Grade 2 hamstring strain. 

However, with the Mariners needing a starting pitcher to fill Castillo's spot, right-hander Emerson Hancock was promoted from Triple-A Tacoma, leading to Zavala's DFA once again. 

Zavala did not appear in any games during this brief stint with the big-league club.

.@Mariners Roster Moves:

🔹 Emerson Hancock, RHP, recalled from Triple-A Tacoma.
🔹 Seby Zavala, C, designated for assignment.

Read more:

— Mariners PR (@MarinersPR) September 13, 2024

Zavala has had a challenging season, beginning the year on Seattle’s Opening Day roster but struggling to maintain a consistent role due to offensive issues. 

In 18 games at the major league level, Zavala posted a .154/.214/.282 slash line with one home run and two RBIs. 

His performance in Triple-A has been similarly underwhelming, hitting just .188 with four homers and 16 RBIs in 33 games. 

Despite his reputation as a strong defensive catcher with above-average framing and blocking skills, his lack of offensive production has made it difficult for him to secure a regular spot on the Mariners' roster.

Shoutout to Seby Zavala for continuing to grind and contribute anyway he can. It can’t be easy playing 1-2 times every 2 weeks. pic.twitter.com/gVQrhD0nGG

— EastCoastM’s🔱 (@EastCoastMs_) May 12, 2024

With Cal Raleigh entrenched as the team’s primary catcher and Mitch Garver serving as his backup, Zavala’s future with the organization remains uncertain. 

If he clears waivers, Zavala is likely to return to Triple-A Tacoma, where he can provide additional depth for Seattle as they push for a playoff spot. 

Meanwhile, Hancock will step into the rotation to replace the injured Castillo as the Mariners look to stay competitive down the stretch.

Photo Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images