Ryan

Anderson

Anderson, who has missed most of the last four seasons with rotator cuff problems, is working out in Arizona at the Mariners’ instructional league complex but has yet to pitch. Seattle may consider making him a short reliever if it is better for his shoulder in the long run.

Another possibility is that Anderson will undergo a third surgery on his left shoulder, but the Mariners think that working in shorter stints could help him. ''When he pitches for an extended period, he seems to always have a setback,’' manager Bob Melvin said. ''I’m not opposed to (the switch) if his durability as a starter is an issue.’'

The Mariners have a full roster and it’s expected that someone will have to go as soon as the Rich Aurilia and Carlos Guillen deals are completed. Anderson is due back from his third shoulder surgery in May or June, but he won’t be close to 100 percent in 2004. Still, it would be a surprise if some team doesn’t claim him off waivers. Detroit might even try to get him thrown into the Guillen deal.

Anderson, on the way back from a third shoulder surgery, had a bullpen session yesterday.

Anderson, re-signed to a minor league deal at the end of the season, spent 2004 working his way back from a third shoulder surgery. Almost all of his upside is gone now, but the Mariners think he could at least be useful as a situational reliever.

He struck out five and walked none, so it wasn’t all bad. He’s given up just the three runs and struck out 14 in eight innings for Brevard County.

We weren’t planning on writing up every one of Anderson’s appearances, but what he’s doing is pretty exciting. He’s given up two hits, walked one and struck out nine in five scoreless innings so far.

So much for the thought that Anderson might be able to contribute as a reliever this season. He’s struggled in his last three appearances.

Anderson didn’t even make it through spring training with Surprise after reports had him throwing 93-94 mph during an exhibition game. Maybe the ''Little Unit’’ still has a chance.

He gave up one hit and walked one.