Cole Wilcox's Post-Tommy John Trajectory: Bullpen Role & Velocity Concerns

Acquired by the Mariners from the Rays, Cole Wilcox is projected for a bullpen or swingman role, likely with the Tacoma Rainiers, rather than Seattle's Opening Day roster. The 26-year-old's velocity and efficacy have not fully recovered since his 2021 Tommy John surgery, with halting performance in 2023-2024. Despite a promising 96 mph sinker as a reliever and a single MLB appearance last season, his post-TJ path has shown a different ceiling than his draft promise. The team views him as 40-man roster depth.