Mariners manager Lloyd McClendon is sticking with Fernando Rodney as the closer and doesn't yet believe that Smith is an alternative.

Analysis:

This despite Rodney's blown save Tuesday and general poor results this season. "I don't have that guy right now," McClendon said of alternatives. "I know people point to Carson Smith, but he's a young kid. We have to be careful with him, particularly with his innings and back-to-back-to-back [appearances]. I'm not sure he can do that. I think his velocity goes down quite a bit. He's one of those young men that still doesn't have his man muscles, so to speak. He needs to mature and continue to develop."