Jack Kochanowicz to Make MLB Debut Against Seattle Mariners
Jack Kochanowicz is set to make his major league debut on the mound for the Los Angeles Angels as they open a four-game series against the Seattle Mariners on Thursday in Anaheim, Calif. The 23-year-old right-hander will be called up from Double-A Rocket City, where he had a 4.55 ERA in 16 starts this season. However, in his past nine starts, Kochanowicz has shown improvement with a 2.90 ERA and two complete games in his last three outings.
“I thought it was definitely in the cards,” Kochanowicz said of his call-up. “It was my first big-league camp this year, which was very, very exciting at the time, but just definitely thought it was possible.”
Angels manager Ron Washington is hoping Kochanowicz can go deep into the game after the bullpen logged 17 innings in the past three games, allowing just three earned runs. The Angels snapped a three-game skid with a 7-2 win against the Texas Rangers on Wednesday, thanks in part to 4 2/3 scoreless innings from the relievers.
Kochanowicz will face a tough challenge against the Mariners, who currently lead the American League West by two games over the Houston Astros. Seattle is coming off a two-game sweep against the San Diego Padres, their first series win in nearly a month.
The Mariners will send veteran right-hander Luis Castillo to the mound in the series opener. Castillo, who has a 7-9 record and a 3.72 ERA, is coming off a strong outing against the Toronto Blue Jays where he held them to one run and two hits over 6 2/3 innings.
Mariners manager Scott Servais praised Castillo for his performance, noting that an adjustment with his slider helped him dominate the Blue Jays lineup. Castillo had struggled in his previous three starts but found success with the new grip on his slider.
Castillo has had success against the Angels in the past, with a 4-1 record and a 3.30 ERA in seven career starts. Angels third baseman Anthony Rendon and second-year shortstop Zach Neto will try to provide offensive support against Castillo. Rendon, who recently returned from a hamstring injury, has had success against Castillo in the past, while Neto has been heating up at the plate after a slow start to the month.
It will be an exciting matchup between two talented pitchers as Kochanowicz makes his MLB debut against Castillo and the Mariners. Fans can expect a competitive game as both teams look to gain ground in their respective divisions.
