Hisashi Iwakuma refusing to give up walks

In 26 2/3 innings, Mariners pitcher Hisashi Iwakuma has only surrendered two walks.

Iwakuma's profile has changed a bit since moving to the rotation. While most pitchers see their performance improve in the bullpen, Iwakuma has been much better in the rotation. In 121 2/3 innings as a starter, Iwakuma has a 2.44 ERA. 

Aside from his new-found control, Iwakuma's approach is a bit different. He's allowed a much higher percentage of fly balls to start out the year. Iwakuma has allowed home runs frequently in his major-league career, so that's something to watch going forward. Unbelievably, he has stranded 100 percent of his runners this year. While that's not going to continue, Iwakuma's 3.86 FIP suggests that he'll still be effective once those runners start coming around. It's a skill set that will work in Safeco.