Mariners gamble failed

While many may try to argue it's still early, the fact is this season is over as far as the M's and getting to .500

It would take a small miracle for the M's to generate any kind of momentum. Shaky pitching, no power, lineup that simply lacks talent, no bench etc... will prevent a sudden turnaround. I'll even add poor managing, as I have not been all that impressed with Hargrove. He is not the reason the M's are bad, but he's not helping himself with 12 pitchers and poor judgement regarding his bullpen and bench.

The M's gambled that last year was an aberration. That the team was not as bad as the 99 loss season would indicate. They were wrong.

Contrast the approach Arizona took. With 111 losses, the Diamondbacks would seem to be light years behind the M's. Yet by replacing 11 players on the roster and some creative maneuvering, the Diamondbacks REDUCED payroll and upgraded the talent. Yes they made some moves I didn't agree with (eg. Green) but that fact is they did an overhaul.

Bavasi of course settled for 3 position player changes and rolled the dice.

It came up snake eyes.