M's Mailbag

MLB.com's Mariner beat writer Jim Street dives into the mailbag to answer questions from Seattle fans.

Picking out the Rattler related questions:

Wasn't Adam Jones an infielder when he was drafted? Is there any chance he could be considered for second base and leave the outfield as is? -- Sheila H., Walla Walla, Wash.

Yes, Jones was a shortstop/pitcher during his high school career at Morse High School in San Diego, the same school that produced former Mariners star Mark McLemore. Jones batted .406 with four home runs and 27 RBIs during his senior season and also posted a 3-3 record and a 2.71 ERA as a pitcher. There is no chance of him moving to second base, however. His future in the Major Leagues is in the outfield, probably playing right field because his arm is so strong.

Why did the Mariners trade Jamie Moyer, and who did they get for him? -- George G., Vader, Wash.

The Mariners traded Moyer to the Phillies on Aug. 19, 2006, for right-handed Minor League pitchers Andrew Baldwin and Andy Barb. Moyer was in the final year of his contract with Seattle and not in the teams' plans for the 2007 season. Moyer helped pitch the Phillies into the playoffs this past season, while Baldwin, 25, had a 5-12 record and 4.23 ERA for Double-A West Tennessee. He had 115 strikeouts and just 19 walks in 166 innings. Barb, 23, was 3-1 with a 2.33 ERA and 10 saves for Class A Wisconsin in 32 relief appearances. His strikeout/walk ratio (55-14 in 38 2/3 innings) also was outstanding.

This question concerns a potential Rattler.

How likely is it that Philippe Aumont will pitch in the rotation next year? -- Kevin K., Bellevue, Wash.

Not likely at all. I would think the first-round Draft choice this past June would start the season at the Class A level and perhaps end it at Double-A. He needs a lot of work before reaching the big leagues.