At the start of the 2011 year, the Seattle Mariners were playing well enough to contend in the American League West till a crushing 17-game losing run in July shattered their hopes for a shock run at a division title. Seattle would go on to post a subpar record of 67-95, and finish last in its division. The Mariners had plenty of problems offensively last year, which led them to trade away second-year starter Michael Pineda for promising young catcher Jesus Montero. It appears like the team will have a difficult time catching up to the likes of the LA Angels and Texas Rangers, however it might be able to finish ahead of a rebuilding A’s squad in Oakland. Here is the projected beginning rotation and closer situation for the Mariners. Check our Seattle Mariners preview for more information on the team.