AFL Watch: Unsworth returns to mound with scoreless outing

RHP Dylan Unsworth finally made his return to the mound, tossing three scoreless innings for the Peoria Javelinas in the Arizona Fall League on Saturday. It was Unsworth's first appearance in a game since June 7th and his first multi-inning outing since May 20th.

In total, Unsworth struck out three and surrendered four hits–all singles–in the Javelinas' 12-2 victory over the Mesa Solar Sox. He didn't issue a single walk in his continuing trend of absolutely despising free passes (career walk rate of 1.2 BB/9). Tack on his seemingly clean bill of health after the outing and you have what makes for a great day for the 24-year-old South African, who recently re-signed with the Mariners after spending his first seven years of minor league ball in the organization.

While Unsworth lacks top-end stuff, his improved ability to command all of his pitches has given him new life as a prospect. In nine starts (46.2 IP) at Double-A Jackson this season, he posted a 2.96 FIP and a 5.00 K/BB. And while you still won't find himself anywhere near a top prospect list, he's put himself in a position to potentially challenge for a spot in the rotation at some point within the next couple years.

Here's how the rest of the Mariners are doing down south:

• OF Tyler O'Neill has played in three games, going 4 for 16 with a HR, 2B, and 8 K. That is a lot of strikeouts. Simmer down, Popeye.
• C Tyler Marlette has played in two games, going 2 for 8 with a 2B, 2 BB, 2 K, and a run.
• SS Drew Jackson has played in two games, going 1 for 9 with 4 K. He's played both second base and shortstop thus far.
• OF Guillermo Heredia has played in one game, going 2 for 4 with a 2B. GUIIIIILLLLLLEEEEERRRRMMMMOOOOOOOOOO!
• RHP Emilio Pagan has pitched in two games, surrendering four earned runs in three innings on four hits, four walks, and one strikeout. Command issues continue to plague his 2016 season.
• LHP Luiz Gohara has made two appearances, striking out seven in 2.2 IP while allowing three runs on four hits. The results haven't quite been there for Gohara, but the stuff has looked really good.
• RHP Thyago Vieira in 2.1 IP so far: 2 H, R, 4 K, 102 mph fastball. It's been an interesting fall for the 23-year-old out of Brazil.