Hirano has been identified by manager Scott Servais as someone who will get the ball at the end of games and in late-inning, high-leverage situations to start the year, Shannon Drayer of 710 ESPN Seattle reports. "We don't want to take opportunities away from our young players but understanding the games we have leads, early in the season let's give it to the veteran guy, let's try to hang on and win those games. I think Hirano is an important pickup for us," Servais said.

EDGE Analysis

He logged a 3.47 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 120:45 K:BB in 119.1 innings across the last two seasons with the Diamondbacks, although he was better in 2018 (2.44 ERA) than in 2019 (4.75 ERA). Seattle gave him a one-year, $1.6 million deal this offseason. Matt Magill, who is currently dealing with shoulder soreness, would seem to be Hirano's top competition for save opportunities. The Mariners figure to be one of the worst teams in the American League, so there may not be many opportunities for saves, but Hirano seems like as good of a bet as anyone in this bullpen to offer fantasy value.

Hirano signed a one-year contract with the Mariners on Thursday.

EDGE Analysis

Hirano spent the past two seasons with the Diamondbacks, posting a combined 3.47 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 120:45 K:BB across 119.1 innings. While the Mariners don't necessarily have a proven endgame option, the veteran right-hander seems more likely to fill a setup role for Seattle. Ricardo Sanchez was designated for assignment to free up a roster spot for Hirano.

Hirano (elbow) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Sunday.

EDGE Analysis

Hirano had been out with elbow inflammation since mid-August. He'll serve as bullpen depth for the Diamondbacks down the stretch, though he hasn't been particularly good this season, posting a 4.89 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP in 46 innings of work.

Hirano (elbow) tossed a 20-pitch bullpen session Sunday, Richard Morin of the Arizona Republic reports.

EDGE Analysis

It's been more than two weeks since Hirano was placed on the injured list. With time running out in minor-league seasons for rehab stints, Hirano may need to get his work in via bullpen sessions or simulated games. In the meantime, the Diamondbacks added a couple of relievers Sunday with roster expansion and could give Hirano whatever time he needs to get back on form.

Hirano (elbow) threw out to 90 feet Monday, Richard Morin of the Arizona Republic reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hirano was placed on the injured list last week with inflammation in his right elbow. Arizona manager Torey Lovullo has not provided a timeline for when to expect Hirano's return. At this time of the year, managers often wait for the calendar to flip to September, when rosters expand, to bring back injured players.

Hirano was placed on the 10-day injured list Saturday with right-elbow inflammation.

EDGE Analysis

Hirano gave up a long ball Friday, his second straight outing allowing a homer after he allowed a total of three home runs in his first 53 appearances of the season. This elbow issue likely played a part in his recent struggles. He will be eligible to return Aug. 27 should he prove ready.

Hirano (2-3) pitched a scoreless 11th inning, allowing a walk and striking out one, and he earned the win in Saturday's 6-5 win over the Mets.

EDGE Analysis

Hirano was the pitcher of record when Tim Locastro provided a walkoff single in the bottom of the 11th. Hirano has a 5.48 ERA and 1.50 WHIP in 27 appearances spanning 21.1 innings this season, with his typical usage coming as a middle reliever or set-up man.

Hirano struck out two in 1.1 scoreless innings to grab his fourth hold in Friday's 7-0 win over the Giants.

EDGE Analysis

Hirano entered the game in the sixth inning with one out and the bases loaded. He struck out Brandon Crawford on a steady diet of splitters and then got Kevin Pillar to pop out. The 35-year-old reliever has not allowed an inherited runner to score since April 3.

Hirano allowed one hit and struck out two in a scoreless ninth inning to earn the save Thursday against the Braves.

EDGE Analysis

With Greg Holland pitching three times in the past four days, Hirano was called upon to secure the win Thursday against the Braves. He proved up to the task, earning his first save of the season. With Holland pitching well, Hirano's chances to close games don't figure to be frequent, though he appears to be second in line in scenarios where Holland is unavailable.

Hirano (1-1) allowed one hit and struck out one over 1.1 innings in Tuesday's 9-6 win over the Braves.

EDGE Analysis

Hirano's off to a wobbly start, but manager Torey Lovullo is sticking by him as a high-leverage reliever. Since getting a vote of confidence from the manager, the 35-year-old reliever has entered close games in the seventh, eighth or ninth innings. Four of his last five outings have been scoreless, and Hirano has struck out 10 over seven innings this season.