Mail Call

The Mariner Mailbag has a few questions related to ex-Rattlers.

Did Ryan Feierabend prove enough in his late-season outings that he is big league material?
-- Mike S., Kent, Ohio

Based on his performance in eight starts, a 1-4 record and 7.71 ERA would suggest the left-hander needs more seasoning at the Minor League level. He still needs better location with most of his pitches -- opponents batted .355 against him -- and 14 walks in 39 2/3 innings are too many.

and

What is the future for Kenji Johjima? Does he deserve another chance to start? Is he an OK backup to Jeff Clement, or should the Mariners trade him?
-- Joe G., Portland, Ore.

The manager will eventually decide where Johjima fits, but based on his final month of the season -- when he batted .333 (19-for-57) and worked well with the pitchers -- I would think he's the No. 1 catcher heading into Spring Training. Besides, the Mariners still aren't sure if Clement, who had knee surgery in September, could catch on a full-time basis.

Exactly how the catching position shakes out in camp could also depend on whether Johjima becomes part of Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic. If he plays for his country, and the Japan team advances to the final round of the 16-team event, he could miss camp in February and most of March.

Speaking of Clement ('05)...Jay at Mariner Minors noted that the Everett Herald, um, noted the progress of Clement from his surgery.

Catcher Jeff Clement has begun a running program and will start hitting off a tee in about two weeks as he recovers from knee surgery.

He had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Sept. 9 and is expected to be at full strength when spring training begins.

"He's still got to come out and see the doctor in early January, but all indications are that he'll be OK," [Mariner trainer] Griffin said.

Meanwhile, Adam McCalvy at the Brewer Mailbag gets six questions....on pretty much the same topic. Click that link if you haven't already guessed it.