Erik Swanson
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MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 23 2025Swanson was released by the Blue Jays on Monday, per MLB's transactions log. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was booted from the 40-man roster Tuesday and didn't receive any interest while on waivers. He'll search for an opportunity elsewhere after electing free agency.
Jun 17 2025The Blue Jays designated Swanson for assignment Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson missed the first couple months of the season due to carpal tunnel syndrome in his right forearm, and he surrendered nine earned runs across 5.1 frames in his first six outings. The 31-year-old was a reliable high-leverage arm from 2021 to 2023 with a 2.60 ERA and 48 holds in 159 appearances, so he could receive some interest on the waiver wire.
Jun 14 2025Swanson coughed up three runs on three hits and a walk in the eighth inning of Friday's 8-0 loss to the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty reliever gave up back-to-back doubles to Max Kepler and J.T. Realmuto to lead off the frame. Swanson has been tagged for runs in three of five appearances since coming off the injured list, leading to a 9.64 ERA, 1.93 WHIP and 2:3 K:BB in 4.2 innings, and he seems a long way from being ready to handle high-leverage work.
Jun 2 2025Swanson (1-0) recorded the win Sunday over the A's, giving up one run on one hit in one inning of relief. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Activated from the 60-day IL earlier in the day after recovering from a forearm issue, Swanson entered the game in the top of the eighth inning with the Blue Jays down 3-2 and had trouble finding the plate. In addition to allowing a leadoff single to Willie MacIver, he uncorked a wild pitch and plunked Denzel Clarke with a 91.1 mph fastball before finally escaping the frame with minimal damage. Swanson then found himself in line for the win when Addison Barger launched a go-ahead, three-run homer in the bottom of the eighth. The right-hander could eventually work his way into a high-leverage role, but Sunday's performance suggests Swanson still has some rust to shake off first.
Jun 1 2025The Blue Jays reinstated Swanson (forearm) from the 60-day injured list Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander has been sidelined for the first couple months of the season due to carpal tunnel syndrome in his right forearm, but he's ready to rejoin the Blue Jays after a six-outing rehab assignment with Triple-A Buffalo. Swanson had a 5.03 ERA across 45 appearances last season, but he recorded four saves and 29 holds with a 2.97 ERA during the regular season in 2023 and could return to a high-leverage role if he can regain that form.
May 31 2025Swanson (forearm) is with the Blue Jays in Toronto and could be reinstated from the 60-day injured list as soon as Sunday, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson is in the final stages of his recovery from carpal tunnel syndrome in his right forearm, which caused him to start the season on the IL. He's given up two hits and no walks while striking out four batters over his last five minor-league innings, and the the veteran right-hander appears to be on the cusp of rejoining the Blue Jays' bullpen. Swanson posted a 5.03 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, nine holds and a 37:14 K:BB across 39.1 innings for Toronto in 2024.
May 13 2025Swanson (forearm) will pitch for Triple-A Buffalo on Wednesday, Mitch Bannon of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson started the season on the injured list due to carpal tunnel syndrome in his right forearm. He was cleared to embark on a rehab assignment with the Blue Jays' Florida Complex League affiliate Friday, and while he gave up four runs (two earned) on 16 pitches without recording an out in his lone outing, he's been cleared to transfer his rehab assignment to Triple-A. Swanson could be activated from the 60-day IL when first eligible in late May, barring any setbacks.
May 9 2025Swanson (forearm) was sent to the Blue Jays' Florida Complex League affiliate Friday to begin a rehab assignment. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson had been slated to start a rehab assignment in late April before encountering a setback. However, an MRI on his injured right forearm came back negative at the beginning of the month and he's ready to give it another shot. Swanson is on the 60-day injured list and won't be eligible for activation until late May, even if his rehab stint goes smoothly.
May 5 2025The Blue Jays transferred Swanson (forearm) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The transaction clears a spot on Toronto's 40-man roster. Swanson suffered a setback with his right forearm last week, and while an MRI came back negative, he's without a timetable to make his 2025 debut.
May 1 2025An MRI on Swanson's right forearm came back negative, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson will receive a second opinion, but the initial prognosis on his pitching arm is good. The reliever was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome back in late March and had been slated to begin a rehab assignment earlier this week, but he had to be scratched due to renewed soreness. The next steps for Swanson should be revealed after he gets his second opinion.
Apr 30 2025Swanson is headed back to Toronto to be examined after being scratched from a scheduled rehab appearance Tuesday with Single-A Dunedin due to right forearm soreness, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty had been slated to make his first game appearance after being diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, but he felt more discomfort in his forearm while warming up. A plan will be mapped out for Swanson after he is re-evaluated, but his absence is likely to extend into at least mid-May.
Apr 21 2025Swanson (elbow) will throw a bullpen session Tuesday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson threw a simulated game Saturday, and if his upcoming bullpen session goes well he could be sent on a rehab assignment. He's progressing in his recovery from carpal tunnel in his right elbow, but barring any setbacks he could return in early May. Swanson appeared in 45 games for the Blue Jays in 2024 and registered a 5.03 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 37:14 K:BB across 39.1 innings.
Apr 18 2025Swanson (forearm) will throw a simulated game Saturday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: If that goes well, he could begin a rehab assignment early next week. Swanson is expected to require at least 4-to-5 rehab appearances, setting him up for a season debut sometime in early May if all goes well. He's working his way back from carpal tunnel syndrome.
Apr 12 2025Swanson (forearm) is expected to begin facing live hitters within the next several days, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson has been throwing bullpens without any issues for about a week, and the Blue Jays are now comfortable advancing him to live batting practice. Once he gets through a few rounds of BP, he'll likely embark on a rehab assignment with one of Toronto's minor-league affiliates.
Apr 4 2025Blue Jays manager John Schneider said that Swanson (forearm) will throw a bullpen session Friday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It will be his first time throwing off a mound since he was given a cortisone injection to combat carpal tunnel syndrome in his right forearm. There's no timetable yet for Swanson's return, but he's making progress.
Mar 27 2025The Blue Jays placed Swanson (forearm) on the 15-day injured list Thursday, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson is working his way back from a median nerve entrapment in his right forearm. He was cleared to resume his throwing program last week, but he'll likely need at least a couple of weeks to fully ramp up and complete a rehab assignment before being activated from the injured list. Once healthy, Swanson projects to serve as a setup arm or middle-innings option in the Toronto bullpen.
Mar 20 2025Swanson (forearm) resumed a throwing program Wednesday and "felt good," per Blue Jays manager John Schneider, Hazel Mae of Sportsnet reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the beginning of what will be a deliberate ramp-up as Swanson works his way back from a median nerve entrapment in his right forearm. The right-handed reliever will begin the season on the 15-day injured list and should be expected to miss at least the first month or so of the season.
Mar 18 2025Blue Jays manager John Schneider said Tuesday that Swanson (forearm) will resume a throwing program Wednesday or Thursday, Hazel Mae of Sportsnet reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It will be the beginning of what Schneider referred to as a "normal-ish, maybe a little bit of an accelerated ramp-up" similar to what pitchers do at the start of spring training. Given that timetable, it sounds like Swanson will probably miss most, it not all, of April, as he works his way back from a median nerve entrapment in his right forearm.
Mar 14 2025Swanson has been diagnosed with a median nerve entrapment in his right forearm, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson has had recurring issues with his forearm/elbow and now there's an explanation as to what's going on. All things considered, the diagnosis could be worse, although it's not clear when he might be ready to pitch in games again. For now, Swanson will be shut down from throwing for at least a couple days. He is expected to begin the season on the 15-day injured list.
Mar 10 2025Swanson (forearm/elbow) will meet with Dr. Keith Meister in Texas on Thursday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson has been slowed by forearm and elbow issues this spring. Blue Jays manager John Schneider referred to Swanson's arm issues as "a little bit of a recurring theme," and the goal with Thursday's exam is to "nail down exactly what's going on." More clarity on Swanson's situation is anticipated after Thursday's meeting, but the reliever is expected to begin the season on the injured list regardless of what comes out of the exam.
Mar 7 2025Swanson (forearm) is expected to begin the season on the injured list after he experienced right elbow discomfort after a bullpen session this week, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Blue Jays are awaiting the results of an MRI, which could provide some clarity on how long the 31-year-old will be sidelined. After operating as a reliable high-leverage reliever from 2021 to 2023, Swanson struggled to a 5.03 ERA across 45 appearances last season.
Feb 21 2025Swanson (forearm) threw 10 pitches off a mound Tuesday, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson is a little behind at the beginning of camp due to right forearm fatigue. He was never totally shut down though, and now that he's progressed to mound work, he could build up quickly. Swanson is on track to be ready for Opening Day, and while he's coming off a rough 2024 campaign, the right-hander is out of minor-league options and should have a spot in the Blue Jays' big-league bullpen.
Feb 13 2025Blue Jays manager John Schneider said Thursday that Swanson will be "a little behind" due to right forearm fatigue, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The club is proceeding cautiously with the reliever early on in camp, but Schneider believes that Swanson will have enough time to be ready for Opening Day. Swanson struggled in 2024 with a 5.03 ERA and 37:14 K:BB while allowing 11 home runs over 39.1 innings. However, if healthy, his track record (2.39 ERA, 31 percent strikeout rate from 2022 to 2023) suggests a bounce-back season should be in store.
Nov 22 2024Swanson agreed to a one-year, $3 million contract with the Blue Jays on Friday to avoid arbitration, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson will stick around in Toronto for a third straight season after being acquired from the Mariners in November of 2022. Swanson spent most of the 2024 regular season in the majors, and across 45 outings with the Blue Jays, he posted a 5.03 ERA and 1.27 WHIP over 39.1 innings. The 31-year-old will provide right-handed relief out of Toronto's bullpen for the 2025 campaign.
Jul 19 2024The Blue Jays recalled Swanson from Triple-A Buffalo on Friday, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson's first 12 appearances at Buffalo didn't go well, as he was tagged for 22 runs (17 earned) over 10 innings. He had been better lately though, yielding two runs with a 5:1 K:BB over his last 5.1 frames. Swanson likely won't see high-leverage work right away, but he could find himself in a prominent role if the Blue Jays ship out relievers like Yimi Garcia and Trevor Richards before the trade deadline.
Jul 10 2024The Blue Jays are considering recalling Swanson from Triple-A Buffalo soon, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was pulled from his most recent appearance with Buffalo this past Thursday due to a heat-related illness, but he's expected to be fine. The reliever was dreadful in his first 12 appearances with Buffalo after being sent down May 28, posting a 15.30 ERA and 11:12 K:BB. However, he's turned in consecutive scoreless outings, and his improved form of late seems to have convinced the Blue Jays that he's ready to help out the big-league bullpen.
May 28 2024The Blue Jays optioned Swanson to Triple-A Buffalo on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After finishing with a sub-3.00 ERA in each of the past two seasons, Swanson has allowed 14 earned runs in 13.2 frames to begin the 2024 campaign. He's been trending in the right direction as of late, posting a 3.52 ERA across 7.2 innings since May 7, but he will head to Triple-A nonetheless to ensure that his struggles will be completely behind him by the time he pitches on a big-league mound again. Chad Green (shoulder) was reinstated from the injured list to take Swanson's roster spot.
Apr 18 2024Swanson (0-1) took the loss Wednesday against the Yankees, allowing three runs on three hits in one-third of an inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Jordan Romano had pitched Tuesday, Yimi Garcia had worked three of the past four days and Chad Green was unavailable due to shoulder soreness, so Swanson was brought in to protect a two-run lead in the ninth in his 2024 debut. The right-hander gave up a leadoff homer to Giancarlo Stanton followed by two more hits. Swanson would coax a groundout from Oswaldo Cabrera before he was replaced by Tim Mayza, who allowed both inherited runners to score. Swanson pitched to a 2.97 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 75:12 K:BB across 66.2 innings last season, and while the Blue Jays likely would have preferred not to thrust him into a high-leverage spot so soon after his return from a forearm issue, he would have been in the late-inning mix eventually.
Apr 16 2024Swanson (forearm) was activated from the 15-day injured list by the Blue Jays on Tuesday, Hazel Mae of Sportsnet reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson got a late start to the season because of right forearm inflammation but has been cleared to return following three rehab appearances. He is in line for a setup role in the Blue Jays' bullpen, although it's possible he'll be eased back into high-leverage situations.
Apr 15 2024Swanson (forearm) is likely to be activated from the injured list Tuesday, Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson has been out all season with right forearm inflammation but is ready to roll after making three rehab appearances. He will be in line for setup duties ahead of closer Jordan Romano (elbow), who is also on track for activation Tuesday.
Apr 14 2024Swanson (forearm) has pronounced himself ready to go after pitching with Triple-A Buffalo on Thursday and Saturday, Mike Wilner of The Toronto Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Blue Jays have been getting by with Chad Green and Yimi Garcia at the back end of the bullpen so far, but they're getting reinforcements back this week with Swanson and Jordan Romano. We'll see how quickly they get inserted into high-leverage roles.
Apr 6 2024Swanson (forearm) will begin a rehab assignment at Single-A Dunedin on Sunday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson has been sidelined due to forearm tightness since mid-March, and he will come in the game to relieve Alek Manoah (shoulder), who will also be making his first rehab appearance Sunday. It's unclear how many games the Jays want Swanson to pitch in the minor leagues, but he will be eligible to return starting Tuesday.
Apr 5 2024Swanson (forearm) threw a live batting practice session Thursday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the next step for Swanson as he works his way back from right forearm tightness. A rehab assignment would appear imminent, although it's not yet clear when exactly that will happen. Swanson is eligible for activation April 9.
Apr 1 2024Swanson (forearm) threw another bullpen session Monday, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson opened the season on the 15-day injured list due to forearm tightness. He threw off the mound Saturday, and Blue Jays manager John Schneider noted that Monday's follow-up session went well. Swanson appears to be trending towards a minimum stay on the injured list.
Mar 30 2024Swanson (forearm) threw a bullpen session Saturday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Blue Jays manager John Schneider said Swanson felt "really good" after his session Saturday, and the right-hander will likely throw another bullpen before progressing to facing live hitters. Swanson has been battling forearm inflammation since mid-March but seems to be trending toward a short stay on the injured list.
Mar 28 2024The Blue Jays placed Swanson (forearm) on the 15-day injured list. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though he's beginning the season on the IL, Swanson isn't expected to be facing a long-term absence while he recovers from right forearm inflammation. With Swanson joining closer Jordan Romano (elbow) on the IL, the Blue Jays are expected to turn to Yimi Garcia, Chad Green and Tim Mayza to handle most of the higher-leverage innings early in the season.
Mar 27 2024Blue Jays manager John Schneider confirmed Wednesday that Swanson (forearm) will begin the season on the injured list, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's confirmation of what had been expected, though an official IL move is still pending. Swanson has been throwing on flat ground as he works his way back from right forearm tightness, and a return to mound work is expected soon. With both Swanson and Jordan Romano (elbow) out, the Blue Jays are expected to use a committee at closer to start the season. Chad Green, Yimi Garcia and Tim Mayza seem to be the most likely candidates.
Mar 25 2024Blue Jays manager John Schneider said Monday that Swanson (forearm) will likely begin the season on the 15-day injured list, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Toronto appears set to head into Opening Day without its top setup man in Swanson and its closer in Jordan Romano, who is unlikely to be available for the first couple weeks of the season while building back up from an elbow injury. Swanson seems to be in a similar spot to Romano in his recovery from a right forearm tightness, as the former has been able to play catch in recent days and is expected to resume throwing off a mound around the middle of the week. If Swanson is able to throw multiple bullpen and live batting practice sessions without issue, he could head out on a brief minor-league rehab assignment before joining the Toronto bullpen when or shortly after he's eligible to come off the IL on April 9. While Swanson and Romano are both temporarily out of the Blue Jays' bullpen mix, Yimi Garcia, Chad Green and Tim Mayza could be candidates to pick up saves.
Mar 22 2024Swanson (forearm) played catch again Friday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It marks two days in a row that he's played catch after a brief shutdown period with right forearm tightness. The Blue Jays' intention is wait until the tail-end of camp before deciding whether Swanson will be part of the Opening Day roster or need a stay on the injured list.
Mar 21 2024Swanson (forearm) played catch Thursday, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson "felt great" during the session, per Blue Jays manager John Schneider. More should be known within the next few days as to whether Swanson will be able to avoid a stint on the injured list to start the season, but he took a nice step Thursday.
Mar 19 2024Swanson will be shut down from throwing for a day or two due to right forearm tightness, Hazel Mae of Sportsnet reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: An MRI showed no structural damage or even inflammation, so the hope is that Swanson can ramp things back up after a day or two of rest. For now, consider the setup man day-to-day. The back-end of the Blue Jays' bullpen is suddenly in flux, as Jordan Romano (elbow) is also banged up.
Mar 1 2024Swanson (personal) has returned to Blue Jays' camp, Mike Wilner of the Toronto Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was away for a few days after his son, Toby, was struck by an SUV on Sunday in Florida. Most importantly, this means Toby's condition is improving. Secondarily, Swanson can now resume his throwing program and has plenty of time to get ready for Opening Day.
Feb 27 2024Manager John Schnieder said Tuesday that Swanson stepped away from the team in order to be with his family, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson's four-year-old son was struck by a car over the weekend, and the veteran pitcher will understandably prioritize his family for the immediate future.
Jan 11 2024Swanson agreed to a one-year, $2.75 million deal with the Blue Jays on Thursday, avoiding arbitration, Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was an excellent setup man for closer Jordan Romano in his first year with the Blue Jays after getting traded from Seattle. He had a 2.97 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 75 strikeouts, four wins and four saves in 66.2 innings.
Sep 18 2023Swanson (4-2) blew the save but was credited with the win in Sunday's victory over the Red Sox, giving up a solo home run to Rafael Devers and striking out two in the ninth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Jordan Romano having pitched the prior two days, Swanson got a chance to protect a 2-1 lead in the ninth but instead watched Devers slash a two-out, two-strike fastball over the fence in the left-field corner. An RBI triple by Matt Chapman in the bottom of the ninth then bailed Swanson out and gave him the win. It's the first run the right-hander had allowed since Aug. 5, snapping a 12-appearance scoreless streak, and the first homer he'd served up since July 1. On the season, Swanson has a 3.06 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 70:19 K:BB through 61.2 innings while adding a career-high 28 holds, four wins and four saves.
Sep 11 2023The Blue Jays activated Swanson (back) from the 15-day injured list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: As anticipated, Swanson will rejoin the Toronto bullpen after a minimum-length stay on the shelf while he recovered from thoracic spine inflammation. Swanson delivered a perfect inning of relief in his lone rehab appearance at Triple-A Buffalo over the weekend and should be ready to step back into a key setup role in front of closer Jordan Romano.
Sep 8 2023Swanson (back) will pitch in a game for Triple-A Buffalo on Saturday, Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Saturday will likely be the only rehab appearance Swanson makes in the minors, and he remains on track to return from the injured list when eligible Monday. The 30-year-old righty allowed just one run over 9.1 frames after the beginning of August before landing on the IL on Aug. 27.
Sep 4 2023Swanson (back) will throw off a mound Tuesday, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It will be his first time throwing from the bump since he went down with thoracic spine inflammation in late August. Swanson is eligible for activation on Sept. 11 and should be able to return then, barring any setbacks.
Aug 28 2023The Blue Jays are optimistic that Swanson (spine) will be in store for an abbreviated stay on the 15-day injured list, Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson landed on the IL on Sunday with thoracic spine inflammation, an injury that cropped up a day earlier in his relief appearance against the Guardians. While Swanson may still face an uphill battle to be ready to return from the IL when first eligible Sept. 11, the Blue Jays expect that he'll be cleared to start throwing again following a 10-day shutdown period. A precise target date for his return would then be established based on how his spine responds after he gradually ramps up the intensity of his throwing.
Aug 27 2023Swanson was placed on the 15-day injured list Sunday with thoracic spine inflammation. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson left early in his relief appearance in Saturday's game against Cleveland with what the Blue Jays initially labeled as right mid-back discomfort, but the right-hander later underwent an MRI that revealed a more precise diagnosis, per Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet.ca. The Blue Jays called up right-hander Jay Jackson from Triple-A Buffalo to take over the active roster spot of Swanson, who had picked up three wins, four saves and 28 holds to go with a 3.10 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 67:19 K:BB across 58 innings this season.
Aug 26 2023Swanson exited Saturday's game against Cleveland with right mid-back discomfort. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson faced just two batters before suffering the injury, recording one out and allowing one hit. He's been a key part of the bridge to Jordan Romano this season, recording a 3.10 ERA in 58 innings, so the Blue Jays won't want to be without him for an extended period.
Aug 6 2023Swanson gave up a run on three hits in two-thirds of an inning Saturday to record his fourth save of the season in a 5-4 win over the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Tim Mayza worked the eighth inning without much trouble and retired the first batter in the ninth, but Swanson proceeded to give up three straight singles after he entered the game and escaped blowing the save only when Connor Wong's high fly to left-center field came up inches short of being a walkoff hit off the Green Monster, and instead led to Reese McGuire getting doubled off second base. Swanson has gone 2-for-2 in converting save chances since Jordan Romano (back) landed on the IL, but Jordan Hicks -- who had pitched three of the prior four days -- appears to be first in line to handle closing duties until Romano returns.
Aug 3 2023Swanson gave up a hit and struck out two in the ninth inning Wednesday to record his third save of the season in a 4-1 win over the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Jordan Hicks worked the eighth inning against Baltimore's 2-3-4 hitters, suggesting that the recent trade acquisition is viewed as the top high-leverage option by manager John Schneider, but Swanson and Yimi Garcia -- who struck out one in a perfect seventh frame -- are also in the late-inning mix and all three could see save chances while Jordan Romano (back) is sidelined. For his part, Swanson's been scored upon only once in his last 10 appearances, and on the season he sports a 3.44 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 57:18 K:BB through 49.2 innings with two wins and an MLB-leading 26 holds in addition to his saves.
Jul 29 2023Swanson is considered one of the top candidates to get saves while Jordan Romano (back) is on the 15-day injured list, Kaitlyn McGrath of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Yimi Garcia and Tim Mayza were also mentioned by McGrath as candidates to work in a closer-by-committee situation in the short term, and the Jays could also look to acquire a high-leverage reliever via trade. Swanson has eight career saves and five in the last two seasons. He has a 3.51 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 55 strikeouts in 48.2 innings.
Jul 17 2023Swanson picked up his second save of the season Sunday, giving up a hit before recording the final out of a 7-5 win over Arizona. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Blue Jays took a 7-2 lead into the ninth inning, but Mitch White made a mess of things by walking the bases loaded with two outs, forcing Swanson into the game as Jordan Romano (back) was unavailable. The right-hander did serve up a bases-clearing double to Ketel Marte before closing out the win, but all the runs were charged to White. Swanson has seen his numbers erode over the last month or so, and he carries a 4.38 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 9:2 K:BB in his last 12.1 innings. He remains in Toronto's high-leverage mix and has six holds over that stretch in addition to Sunday's save, but Yimi Garcia may be the more trusted arm from the right side at the moment.
Jun 3 2023Swanson picked up the save Saturday against the Mets. He allowed one hit while striking out one over a scoreless inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson received his first save opportunity of 2023 and came through with a scoreless inning to earn his first save of the campaign. Though Swanson is used as a setup man and has excelled in that role, he was handed the ball in the ninth with Jordan Romano resting after pitching back-to-back days. Through 27 appearances (27.2 innings), Swanson owns a 2.93 ERA with 34 strikeouts but will likely only enter the fantasy conversation if Romano misses significant time.
May 3 2023Swanson (1-1) took the loss against the Red Sox on Tuesday, striking out one and allowing a solo home run in the eighth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Connor Wong lofted the fourth pitch Swanson threw over the Green Monster for what proved to be the game-winning run. The long ball snapped an eight-appearance scoreless streak for the right-hander, and overall the former Mariner has been exactly as advertised in a setup role for the Blue Jays, posting a 1.84 ERA, 0.75 WHIP and 20:6 K:BB through 14.2 innings with eight holds. Should Jordan Romano be unavailable at some point, Swanson seems the most likely candidate to step in and handle ninth-inning duties.
Apr 30 2023Swanson (1-0) issued one walk and struck out three over a scoreless inning of relief en route to claiming his first win of the season in Saturday's 1-0 win over the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though the Blue Jays forked over outfielder Teoscar Hernandez to bring back Swanson and lefty pitching prospect Adam Macko from Seattle over the offseason, the veteran reliever has been well worth the acquisition price thus far. He hasn't allowed a run over his last eight appearances, collecting a win and five holds to go with a 0.60 WHIP and 14 strikeouts across 8.1 innings during that stretch.
Apr 6 2023Swanson struck out one in a perfect eighth inning to record his second hold of the season in Wednesday's win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The former Mariner is showing his 2022 breakout was no fluke, posting a 4:1 K:BB through his first 3.1 innings with the Blue Jays. Swanson joins Yimi Garcia and Tim Mayza as the main late-inning options ahead of closer Jordan Romano, and in that role he should easily top last year's career high of 14 holds.
Nov 16 2022The Blue Jays acquired Swanson and left-hander Adam Macko from the Mariners on Wednesday in exchange for outfielder Teoscar Hernandez, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson quietly emerged as one of the majors' top setup men in 2022, finishing with a 1.68 ERA, 0.91 WHIP and 70:10 K:BB across 53.2 innings for Seattle while nabbing three wins, three saves and 14 holds. In Toronto, Swanson will face a more blocked path to the ninth-inning role with incumbent closer Jordan Romano coming off his first All-Star campaign. Swanson should at least remain a solid late-round target in deeper mixed and AL-only leagues for fantasy managers looking for stability in the ratio categories.
Oct 6 2022Swanson (3-2) earned the victory over the Tigers on Wednesday, firing a perfect ninth inning during which he recorded two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander put a fitting cap on a highly impressive regular season with a crisp 12-pitch frame during which he got nine of his offerings in for strikes. Swanson logged a career-high 57 appearances in 2022, adding three saves and 14 holds alongside his three wins. Additionally, the 29-year-old mustered a career-best 1.68 ERA and 0.91 WHIP, while his strikeout rate shot up to a blistering 34.0 percent after previously having topped out at 24.3 percent in 2021. Swanson should continue to play a key setup role during the Mariners' postseason run.
Sep 26 2022Swanson (2-2) took the loss against the Royals on Sunday, allowing two runs on three hits over one-third of an inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was also charged with his second blown save of the season in what was his second straight loss, blowing an 11-8 lead by allowing a pair of RBI singles and a two-run double. Swanson's stumbles are exceedingly rare during a season in which he's been one of manager Scott Servais' most reliable bullpen options -- he's still carrying a 1.85 ERA and 0.95 WHIP alongside an 11.7 K/9 despite the recent struggles.
Sep 22 2022Swanson (2-1) took the loss Wednesday against the Athletics. He allowed two runs on two hits and one walk while striking out zero over zero innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a disastrous outing for Swanson, who failed to record an out after being called upon in the bottom of the seventh. He surrendered a leadoff walk to Jordan Diaz to begin the inning and then allowed back-to-back hits to put the Mariners down 0-2 before getting pulled. After not allowing a run through all of August, Swanson has now allowed four runs in September but still sports a solid 1.49 ERA and 0.89 WHIP on the season.
Sep 11 2022Swanson, who notched his 13th hold with a perfect eighth inning in a win over Atlanta on Saturday, has pitched to a 2-0 record, 0.95 ERA and 0.79 WHIP with two saves and seven holds in the 19 innings he's logged since the All-Star break. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander has consistently flummoxed opposing bats all season, as he's carrying a 1.00 ERA and 0.82 WHIP overall in 47 appearances (one start). Swanson is therefore an excellent setup option for manager Scott Servais while frequently working in a 1-2 punch with closer Paul Sewald, who's been a revelation in his own right with 19 saves.
Aug 6 2022Swanson pitched a perfect inning and picked up his third save of the season in Game 1 of Saturday's doubleheader against the Angels. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Scott Servais opted to save usual closer Paul Sewald for the nightcap, so Swanson got a chance to close out Saturday's opener and did just that. Swanson has been as stingy as they come this season, and he now owns a 1.07 ERA over 33.2 innings.
Jul 31 2022Swanson (2-0) recorded the win over the Astros on Saturday, allowing two hits and recording a strikeout over a scoreless eighth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson had to navigate around some trouble but was still sharp, pounding 12 of his 16 pitches in for strikes. The right-hander has been a bit more vulnerable than usual lately while allowing seven hits over the five innings covering his last six appearances, but he's still produced a 2-0 record and one hold over that span, albeit while also being charged with a blown save.
Jul 27 2022Swanson (1-0) recorded the win over the Rangers on Tuesday, allowing an earned run on two hits over one inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Asked to preserve a 3-3 tie when he entered in the ninth, Swanson actually failed to do so by giving up a go-ahead RBI single to Ezequiel Duran. However, he ultimately walked away with his first win courtesy of Seattle's two-run rally in the home half of the frame. Swanson's stumble was an exceedingly rare one, as Tuesday marked only the fourth time he'd allowed a run across 29 appearances this season.
Jul 25 2022Swanson retired both batters he faced to earn the save in Monday's 4-3 win over the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Regular closer Paul Sewald was deployed in the eighth inning, and Diego Castillo put together a shaky start of the ninth. Swanson entered with a one-run lead and two runners aboard, but he escaped by retiring Josh Smith and Marcus Semien. In July, Swanson has allowed one run over 7.1 innings, which included one outing as an opener. The 28-year-old right-hander continues to step up when called upon -- he has a 0.98 ERA, 0.80 WHIP and 36:5 K:BB through 27.2 innings while adding two saves, six holds and a blown save this year.
Jul 13 2022Swanson will serve as the opener for the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Nationals, Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson hasn't pitched since being activated from the paternity list Monday, but he'll begin Wednesday's nightcap on the mound ahead of primary pitcher Tommy Milone. Over his last 10 appearances, Swanson has posted an 11:4 K:BB and 1.04 WHIP in 8.2 scoreless innings.
Jul 11 2022Swanson (personal) was reinstated from the paternity list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was away from the team for a few days following the birth of his daughter, but he'll rejoin the Mariners after spending just two days on the paternity list. Jacob Barnes was designated for assignment by Seattle to make room on the active roster.
Jul 9 2022Swanson was placed on the paternity list Saturday, Shannon Drayer of 710 ESPN Seattle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson will be away from the team for a few days to be with his infant daughter. He'll likely return Tuesday against the Nationals. Matt Brash and Matt Festa were recalled Saturday to replace Swanson and Ken Giles, who landed on the injured list with shoulder tightness.
Jun 25 2022Swanson walked two (one intentionally) in a scoreless inning to earn the save in Saturday's 5-3 win over the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Paul Sewald had pitched each of the last two days, but the save chance interestingly went to Swanson instead of Diego Castillo, who fired a perfect eighth inning for a hold. Swanson had to navigate the top of the Angels' order, but he was able to sandwich an intentional walk of Mike Trout with lineouts from Taylor Ward and Shohei Ohtani to preserve the lead. In his last six outings, Swanson has allowed just two hits and two walks over 5.1 scoreless innings. He's proven worthy of trust from manager Scott Servais by posting a 0.93 ERA, 0.78 WHIP and 27:3 K:BB in 19.1 innings this year, and his usage Saturday may signal his entrance into more high-leverage spots. He'd previously recorded four holds in his first 18 outings.
Jun 22 2022Swanson, who fired a scoreless eighth inning during which he recorded a strikeout in a win over the Athletics on Tuesday, has put together four perfect frames and 5:0 K:BB across four appearances since his return from the injured list. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson has been even better than immediately prior to suffering an elbow injury in early May, as he'd given up his first two runs of the season in his most recent two appearances at that point. He's bounced right back with a quartet of spotless efforts after spending exactly a month out of major-league game action, giving manager Scott Servais a versatile valued option for all manner of relief scenarios.
Jun 10 2022Swanson (elbow) struck out one in a perfect inning during Friday's 4-3 loss to the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson missed a month with right elbow inflammation. He was effective in his return, throwing 17 pitches (12 strikes) to complete his first inning since May 10. Prior to his stint on the injured list, he gave up runs in consecutive outings, though those were the first runs on his ledger all year. He owns a 1.20 ERA, 0.73 WHIP, 22:1 K:BB and three holds in 15 innings across 14 appearances overall, so he could be in line for some high-leverage work.
Jun 7 2022Swanson (elbow) is slated to make one more rehab appearance with High-A Everett before rejoining the Mariners, Daniel Kramer of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was impressive while firing a scoreless second inning Saturday against High-A Eugene, and the Mariners will apparently afford him a second tune-up opportunity. Assuming all goes off without a hitch in that upcoming appearance, Swanson is slated for activation before the start of an upcoming homestand Friday against the Red Sox.
Jun 5 2022Swanson (elbow) fired a perfect second inning during which he recorded two strikeouts in High-A Everett's loss to Eugene on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was certainly an encouraging sign for the 28-year-old after last having seen game action May 10. Swanson was in the midst of an outstanding start to the season that included a 1.29 ERA, 0.79 WHIP and 21:1 K:BB across 13 appearances, and Daniel Kramer of MLB.com reports the right-hander may be deemed ready for activation Monday ahead of the start of a series against the Astros at Minute Maid Park.
May 23 2022Swanson (elbow) continued to throw over the last several days without any setbacks, leaving him on track to return from the injured list when first eligible Sunday, Craig Forde of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Scott Servais continues to hear nothing but good things about Swanson's rehab process. The 28-year-old, who'd produced three holds, a 21:1 K:BB, a 1.29 ERA and an 0.79 WHIP through his first 13 appearances of the season, would naturally be a welcome reinforcement for a Mariners bullpen that's seen a couple of its members struggle with consistency.
May 18 2022Swanson is no longer experiencing discomfort in the back of his elbow and could be ready to return from the 15-day injured list when first eligible May 29, Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was shut down Saturday with right elbow inflammation, but the injury doesn't look to be anything that will result in an extended absence. Manager Scott Servais said he expects Swanson to require just one rehab appearance in the minors before being ready to return from the IL. The 28-year-old has been impressive in a relief role this season, giving up two earned runs on 10 hits and a walk while striking out 21 over 14 innings.
May 14 2022Swanson was placed on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson tossed 12 scoreless innings over his first 11 appearances in 2022, but he allowed two runs in two innings over his last two outings. It's possible that his injury contributed to his decline in results, and he'll be unavailable for at least two weeks. A timetable for his return isn't yet clear, but left-hander Danny Young was recalled from Triple-A Tacoma to provide additional bullpen depth.
May 6 2022Swanson fired 1.1 scoreless innings in a loss to the Rays on Thursday, keeping his ERA unblemished through 10 appearances. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander has been exceedingly sharp through the first month of the season, as in addition to not yet allowing a run, he also boasts a 13:1 K:BB across 11 innings. Swanson is sporting a sparkling 0.73 WHIP as well and and has already made four appearances of more than one inning while contributing a pair of holds.
Apr 24 2022Swanson recorded his first hold in a win over the Royals on Saturday, firing a perfect sixth inning during which he recorded two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander's sparkling start to the season continued Saturday, with Swanson needing just 11 pitches, 10 which he threw for strikes, to get through his one frame. Swanson now has an unblemished ERA through 6.2 innings across five appearances, generating a stellar 8:0 K:BB in the process.
Apr 17 2022Swanson, who fired two scoreless innings during which he allowed one hit and recorded three strikeouts in a loss to the Astros on Saturday, sports an unblemished ERA in his first three appearances of the season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander's strong start has been an especially welcome development after a rough spring in which he posted a 10.80 ERA in five appearances. Swanson has allowed just two hits over that first trio of outings and has generated a 4:0 K:BB in the process, although he's yet to see a hold opportunity.
Apr 5 2022Swanson wrapped up Cactus League play with a 4:1 K:BB and 10.80 ERA over five innings across five appearances. He was credited with one save. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander worked an inning in each appearance and gave up at least one earned run in three of them while giving up 11 hits overall. The fact Swanson pitched to so much contact is at least somewhat concerning when factoring in he's once again projected to be a key middle-relief component of Seattle's bullpen, but Daniel Kramer reports the 28-year-old had some of the best quality of contact numbers on the Mariners in 2021, a season in which he recorded a save and five holds alongside a 3.31 ERA and 1.08 WHIP over 33 appearances.
Sep 5 2021Swanson recorded his fifth hold in a win over the Diamondbacks on Saturday, firing a perfect seventh inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's been a bit of a rocky road for Swanson during the second half of the season, with the right-hander giving up multiple runs in three appearances. Swanson had also yielded at least one run in four of his previous five trips to the mound entering Saturday, but the quick work he made of the Diamondbacks in his first appearance in a week was a reminder of how effective he's often been in a season where he's forged a 2.48 ERA and 1.00 WHIP.
Aug 11 2021Swanson (0-2) lost Tuesday's 5-4 affair with the Rangers, allowing two runs (one earned) on two hits with a strikeout in one inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson entered a tie game in the 10th and recorded two outs before surrendering two singles to suffer the defeat. The 27-year-old righty is in the midst of a breakout season, though he has two losses and two blown saves in his last four appearances, causing his ERA to spike from 0.47 to 2.01.
Aug 2 2021Swanson (0-1) was charged with the loss in a defeat at the hands of the Rangers on Sunday, allowing three earned runs on three hits without recording an out in the ninth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Asked to preserve a 3-1 lead when presented with only his second save opportunity of the season, Swanson immediately encountered trouble by allowing Nathaniel Lowe to reach on a single and then surrendered back-to-back home runs Andy Ibanez and Jonah Heim, the latter a game-winning blast. The stumble was highly uncharacteristic of Swanson, who'd last allowed a run May 8, a span of 12.2 innings across 12 appearances.
Jul 27 2021Swanson fired two scoreless innings in a win over the Astros on Monday, allowing no hits and one walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson's pair of strong frames ended up being integral to the comeback win, as he bought the Mariners some time after the Astros had racked up eight runs through the first five innings. The 27-year-old has been dominant when called upon this season, with Tuesday's effort whittling his ERA and WHIP down to tiny 0.49 and 0.82 figures, respectively, across 14 appearances.
Jul 12 2021Swanson fired a scoreless two-thirds of an inning during which he allowed a hit in a loss to the Angels on Sunday, his first appearance since being activated from the injured list Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was sidelined for what amounted to nearly a month and a half with a groin injury, but he was able to pick up right where he left off in his return Sunday. Swanson now has seven consecutive scoreless efforts dating back to May 13, lowering his ERA and WHIP to an elite 0.66 and 0.80, respectively.
Jul 7 2021The Mariners activated Swanson (groin) from the 10-day injured list Wednesday, Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty made two rehab appearances with Triple-A Tacoma, allowing a solo homer and striking out one in two innings of work. Before a right groin strain sent Swanson to the IL on May 29, he posted a 0.69 ERA with 14 strikeouts and six walks in 13 innings. He made nine appearances, two of which were starts.
Jul 5 2021Swanson (groin) fired a scoreless sixth inning in Triple-A Tacoma's loss to Reno on Saturday, allowing one hit. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was originally scheduled to kick off his rehab assignment with the Rainiers last Monday, but some back soreness following a tune-up bullpen session during the preceding weekend put a hold on those plans. However, the right-handed reliever encouragingly was able to tolerate a solid 20-pitch workload over his one frame Saturday, and he'll likely make at least one more rehab appearance before activation is considered.
Jun 30 2021Swanson (groin) did not make a scheduled rehab appearance with Triple-A Tacoma on Monday due to back soreness, the Associated Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was slated to officially begin his rehab assignment Monday after throwing a bullpen session over the weekend, but back soreness apparently stemming from that activity put a damper on that plan. Assuming the issue doesn't develop into anything more debilitating, Swanson will likely be cleared to make his debut with the Rainiers at some point in the coming days.
Jun 26 2021Swanson (groin) has joined Triple-A Tacoma on its current road trip and will throw a bullpen session before officially jumping into a rehab assignment, the team's official site reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander got through a bullpen session earlier this week without any apparent setbacks, and he's now on the verge of his first taste of game action since May 28. Upon rejoining the big-league club Swanson may be inserted into some high-leverage scenarios fairly quickly, as he boasted an 0.69 ERA and 0.77 WHIP across 13.0 innings prior to the injury.
Jun 20 2021Swanson (groin) will throw a bullpen session Monday and is likely headed to a rehab assignment with Triple-A Tacoma shortly thereafter, the Associated Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old was projected for an extended absence when first placed on the injured list May 29, and although he's still expected to be on the shelf into July, he appears to be making steady progress. If all goes well with Sunday's session, Swanson could potentially embark on his rehab assignment before the coming week is out.
May 30 2021Manager Scott Servais said Swanson (groin) is expected to be sidelined for an extended period, Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old doesn't have an official timeline for his return after landing on the injured list with a strained right groin Saturday, but he can be ruled out indefinitely for now. Swanson was pitching well prior to the injury with a 0.69 ERA, 0.77 WHIP and 14:6 K:BB across 13 innings.
May 29 2021Swanson was placed on the 10-day injured list Saturday with a strained right groin. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old recorded his first save of the season with 1.1 scoreless frames Friday against the Rangers, but he apparently injured his groin during the contest. Swanson will be eligible to be activated June 8, though it's unclear how long he's expected to be sidelined.
May 28 2021Swanson saved Friday's 3-2 win over the Rangers, throwing 1.1 innings and allowing a hit and a walk with two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson relieved Keynan Middleton with two outs and runners on first and second in the eighth and induced an Adolis Garcia strike out before retiring Jason Martin with two on and two out in the ninth to lock down his first save. Swanson's use in the closer role Friday could be a result of Rafael Montero seeing work in three of the last four games or manager Scott Servais rewarding an excellent 0.69 ERA.
May 25 2021Swanson secured his second hold in a win over the Athletics on Monday, issuing a walk and recording three strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson got 11 of his 18 pitches into the strike zone while lowering his ERA to 0.77. The right-hander has put together five consecutive scoreless appearances, a stretch during which he's notched a pair of holds and an 8:3 K:BB over five innings.
May 8 2021Swanson allowed one run on two hits and a walk over 2.2 innings in Saturday's loss to the Rangers. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty was sharp Saturday as he opened against a Rangers lineup that has a lot of pop. The 27-year-old threw 30 of his 45 pitches for strikes and now will look to build up manager Scott Servais' trust in order to earn a longer leash in a rotation that may call up some young arms as the season progresses. Swanson will more than likely open for two to three innings in his next appearance and now has a 1.35 ERA and 0.60 WHIP on the season.
May 3 2021Swanson registered a no-decision Monday against Baltimore, going two innings and allowing no base runners with three strikeouts in a 5-3 loss. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his first start and second appearance of 2021, Swanson shut down the Orioles albeit over just two innings as the opener. The quality outing may have earned him another opportunity moving forward.
May 2 2021The Mariners recalled Swanson from their alternate training site Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson will offer the Mariners some length out of the bullpen ahead of Sunday's series finale against the Angels after Seattle needed four relievers to cover the final seven innings of Saturday's 10-5 loss. If Justus Sheffield can work relatively deep into Sunday's start, the Mariners could bypass using Swanson and deploy him as the spot starter for what's expected to be a bullpen game in Monday's series opener in Baltimore. The Mariners plan to keep a six-man rotation intact while Marco Gonzales (forearm) is on the shelf, but manager Scott Servais has yet to name a replacement for the southpaw.
Apr 16 2021Swanson was optioned to the alternate training site Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old was recalled from the alternate site at the start of the week and will return there with Anthony Misiewicz activated from the COVID-19 injured list Friday. Swanson fired two scoreless frames in his lone appearance during his brief time with the team.
Apr 12 2021Swanson was recalled by the Mariners on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson began the season at the Mariners' alternate training site even though he posted a 2.84 ERA and 0.63 WHIP in 6.1 innings this spring. However, he'll rejoin the major-league bullpen after Anthony Misiewicz was placed on the injured list for an unspecified reason Monday. Swanson gave up 11 runs in 7.2 innings across nine relief appearances for Seattle last year and will presumably serve in a low-leverage role in 2021.
Mar 27 2021Swanson was optioned to the Mariners' alternate training site Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson cruised to a 2.84 ERA and 0.63 WHIP in 6.1 spring innings, but that evidently wasn't enough to earn an Opening Day roster spot. With a career 6.58 ERA in 65.2 major-league innings, Swanson will presumably fill a low-leverage role if and when he returns to the majors.
Sep 14 2020Swanson (forearm) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson will wind up missing just shy of a month with a strained right forearm. He hadn't pitched well in six appearances prior to the injury, allowing nine runs in 5.1 innings of work, though that did at least come with a 7:1 K:BB. Aaron Fletcher was optioned in a corresponding move.
Sep 12 2020Swanson (forearm) continues to throw at the Mariners' alternate training site in Tacoma with an eye on returning before the end of the season, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was scheduled to throw in an intrasquad game Friday that was ultimately cancelled due to poor air quality stemming from wildfires on the West Coast. Swanson has been on the injured list since Aug. 20, and he now has just over two weeks of time remaining to get some regular-season action in.
Sep 3 2020Swanson (forearm) worked out with the team Thursday and could be activated from the injured list in the near future, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was placed on the injured list Aug. 20 with a forearm strain. No exact timetable has been established for when the right-hander could be activated, but it sounds like sometime within the next week is not out of the question. The 27-year-old has struggled in six appearances this season, allowing nine runs in just 5.1 innings.
Aug 20 2020Swanson was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right forearm strain, retroactive to Aug. 17. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson has labored through his past two appearances as he's given up six runs on four hits while hitting two batters and striking out two over one inning. His injury could help provide an explanation behind his back-to-back losing efforts. The exact severity of the issue isn't known, and it's unclear how much time he'll miss as a result of the injury.
Aug 13 2020Swanson (0-1) was tagged with the loss and a blown save Wednesday against the Rangers after giving up five runs on three hits while striking out one in two-thirds of an inning. He also hit two batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was all over the place Wednesday and gave the game away in the bottom of the eighth -- the Mariners had a 4-2 lead when Swanson entered the contest and were down 6-4 when he left. He kicked things off striking out Nick Solak, but then Swanson allowed four straight batters to reach base with a single, a double, a hit by pitch and an RBI single. He was able to record the second out on a sac fly from Shin-Soo Choo that scored Elvis Andrus, and Swanson also hit Isiah Kiner-Falefa before departing the contest. This is an outing the 26-year-old right-hander will try to forget as soon as possible.
Aug 3 2020Swanson struck out two in a clean ninth inning in a loss to the Athletics on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Just recalled from the Mariners' alternate training site earlier in the day, Swanson was put right to work by manager Scott Servais, and the right-hander needed just nine pitches to get through the trio of Austin Allen, Tony Kemp and Marcus Semien. Swanson was deployed as both a starter and reliever during his rookie 2019 campaign, finishing with a 5.74 ERA and 1.17 WHIP over 27 appearances (eight starts). The 26-year-old will aim to do a better job of keeping the ball in the park -- something he never had trouble with during his minor-league career -- after surrendering a bloated 2.6 HR/9 across his 58 innings last season.
Aug 2 2020The Mariners recalled Swanson from their alternate training site prior to Sunday's game against the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson missed out on a spot on the Mariners' season-opening 30-man roster, but he'll now move up to the big club to reinforce the bullpen in the short term. Third catcher Joe Odom was optioned to the Mariners' alternate camp in a corresponding move.
Apr 14 2020Swanson, who entered spring camp with a back issue, is now fully healthy according to pitching coach Pete Woodworth, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was able to log three Cactus League appearances as he worked through the final stages of his back strain before spring training was suspended, generating a 3.00 ERA across three innings. The 26-year-old right-hander is looking to bounce back from a 2019 rookie campaign during which he put up a 1-5 record and 5.74 ERA across 27 appearances (eight starts). Swanson is expected to work exclusively out of the bullpen whenever the regular season begins, with the possible exception being if multiple injuries were to strike the starting rotation.
Mar 4 2020Swanson, who was previously struggling with a back injury, emerged from his Cactus League debut Monday without any issues, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander allowed an earned run on two hits during his one inning against the Rockies, but he also recorded a pair of strikeouts. The fact Swanson didn't suffer any setbacks is certainly encouraging, as is manager Scott Servais' observation that the reliever improved the more his outing progressed Monday.
Mar 3 2020Swanson (back) allowed an earned run on two hits and a walk over an inning in a Cactus League loss to the Rockies on Monday. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was making his Cactus League debut after an offseason back injury delayed his start to spring training. The 26-year-old could enjoy a steady, multi-inning role in Seattle's bullpen this season, and he's likely to get multiple opportunities to cement his spot over the balance of the exhibition slate.
Mar 1 2020Swanson (back) is expected to make his Cactus League debut Monday against the Rockies, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson has been able to throw multiple live batting practice sessions in recent days without issue, setting the stage for his spring debut against Colorado. The 25-year-old struggled in his first taste of big-league action last season (5.74 ERA, 2.6 HR/9 across 27 appearances), but with plenty of starting experience under his belt during his time in the minors, he's viewed as a potential multi-inning option out of the bullpen.
Feb 29 2020Swanson (back) is expected to make his Cactus League debut in the next few days, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A back strain popped up several weeks before camp, so he is behind schedule. He worked as a starter and a reliever last year, and according to Johns, the Mariners were more impressed with his potential out of the bullpen. Swanson profiles as more of a multi-inning option, although his fastball/splitter combo gives him a chance to get high-leverage outs.
Feb 22 2020Swanson (back) is slated to pitch his first live batting practice of spring Sunday, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson has been slowed by a mid-back strain suffered in January while still at home, but he was able to get through a bullpen session Tuesday without any issue. That led to Sunday's scheduled live batting practice session, and another positive outcome will likely set up a Cactus League appearance for Swanson at some point in the next week.
Feb 19 2020Swanson, who is recovering from a mid-back strain, threw a 25-pitch bullpen session without issue Tuesday, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander began experiencing discomfort back in mid-January while working out a home in North Dakota, and the issue currently has him a few days behind the rest of his fellow pitchers. However, given the positive results of Tuesday's bullpen, Swanson is set throw another bullpen and a live batting practice before jumping into Cactus League action.
Feb 15 2020Swanson is being held back slightly in spring training after feeling some muscle spasms in his right shoulder several weeks ago, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson's spring training is getting off to a slow start, but his lack of usage is likely just a precaution. The right-hander is expected to do some light throwing Saturday, and it wouldn't be surprising to see the Mariners ease him back into normal usage as long as he doesn't experience any setbacks. Swanson made his major-league debut last season, posting a 5.74 ERA and 1.17 WHIP over 58 innings.
Sep 21 2019Swanson did not allow a baserunner and struck out one to record the save Saturday against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson earned another save in extra-innings, his second of the season. Though his ERA is inflated due to struggles as a starter, Swanson has pitched fairly well as a reliever and has now turned in four consecutive scoreless appearances. More impressive is Swanson's 52:12 K:BB across 55 innings for the season, indicating he could enjoy future success out of the bullpen.
Sep 19 2019Swanson struck out the side and walked one in the eleventh inning to earn the save Thursday against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Swanson was called upon to protect a one-run lead in the 11th inning after the team used Anthony Bass in the ninth frame to preserve a tied game. Swanson had little trouble closing the game for his first-career save, striking out the side. While he has an ugly 6.17 ERA across his first 54 innings in the majors, Swanson has turned in scoreless outings in nine of his last 11 appearances.
Jul 26 2019Swanson served as the opener in a win over the Tigers on Thursday and fired two scoreless innings during which he allowed a walk and recorded three strikeouts. He did not factor into the decision.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 25 2019Swanson will serve as the opener Thursday against the Tigers, Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 18 2019Swanson served as the opener in Wednesday's loss to the Athletics and allowed two earned runs on two hits and a walk across two innings. He also recorded two strikeouts and did not factor into the decision.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 17 2019Swanson will work as the opener<\/a> Wednesday against the A's.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 16 2019Swanson was recalled by the Mariners on Tuesday, Greg Johns of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 17 2019Swanson was optioned<\/a> to Triple-A Tacoma on Friday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 16 2019Swanson (1-5) gave up eight earned runs on nine hits over just three innings while taking the loss to the Twins on Thursday. He struck out three with no walks.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 16 2019Swanson (1-5) gave up eight earned runs on nine hits over just three innings in a loss to the Twins on Thursday. He struck out three with no walks.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 10 2019Swanson (1-4) took the loss after giving up seven runs on seven hits while striking out four over 4.2 innings Friday night against the Red Sox.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 13 2018Swanson has a 5.11 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 29:5 K:BB in 24.2 innings since being promoted to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.That ERA isn't very pretty, but his 3.81 FIP and 2.83 xFIP are better indicators of how well he has pitched. His 23.3 K-BB percentage is outstanding for a starting pitcher, and while he hasn't dominated to the extent he did at Double-A earlier this year (0.44 ERA, 0.81 WHIP, 26.9 K-BB% in 40.2 innings), he still seems to be inching closer to making his big-league debut sometime this season. He has a 92-94 mph fastball, a quality changeup and a much improved curveball, giving him a chance to make it as a mid-rotation starter.