Mariners grant Anderson his release

SEATTLE -- Veteran right-handed pitcher Cody Anderson, who dealt with elbow issues in Spring Training, was released by the Mariners last week prior to Major League Baseball’s roster freeze, the club announced Friday.

The 29-year-old had requested his release and is now a free agent. Anderson signed with the Mariners as a Minor League free agent on Feb. 17 and appeared in just two Cactus League games, allowing four runs on eight hits – including a pair of home runs – in three innings.

Anderson had been brought in as a non-roster invitee to add some potential starting depth. He went 9-9 with a 4.76 ERA in 39 career games (including 26 starts) with the Indians in 2015-16 and 2019, but missed all of 2017-18 following Tommy John surgery.

Anderson attempted to return from his two-year layoff last season, but posted a 9.35 ERA in five games (two starts) while throwing 8 2/3 innings for the Indians and was 0-2 with a 4.56 ERA in six starts for Triple-A Columbus.

Anderson’s release leaves the Mariners with 43 players in Major League camp, which currently is on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.