There’s been a lot of debate as to what corresponding roster move the Mariners would make after activating Erik Bedard from the 15-day DL for today’s start.  There were arguments to be made for a Sean White DL stint, a Garrett Olson or Roy Corcoran demotion, and a few others.  Most guesses involved a pitcher since the Mariners will be able to stick to a 4-man rotation for a while, which obviously adds an extra pitcher to the bullpen.

But Mike Sweeney, bothered by back spasms, hits the DL (according to a KJR tweet), leaving the Mariner bench with Josh Wilson, Wlad Balentien and whoever is the backup catcher for the night.

I don’t expect the Mariners to carry 9 relievers for long. They could string it out until the All Star break (6 games), but it wouldn’t be surprising to see Chris Shelton get the call in the next few days.

A big decision on Sweeney’s future with the team will have to be made sooner than later as well.