Sabermetrics whiz Blengino’s the guy Seattle relies on to find little-known prospects

One example from a year ago: Franklin Gutierrez.

“Gutierrez was a center fielder playing right field,” Blengino said. “He had some offensive potential, and that’s what our analysis said. Now, when does it come together? That’s something you can’t predict, but with Franklin, we didn’t have to wait.

“Risk assessment is part of it. It’s not an exact science. Some of it is objective, some of it subjective.”

Among the reports available to Zduriencik are those on all 32 minor league free agents from his own farm system.

“You’d love to reach down and find the minor league player that surprises everyone,” Zduriencik said, “but the likelihood is you find guys who can make a contribution, not an impact. Guys like Chris Shelton, Chris Woodward last year.

“I’m a believer that intangibles are important to winning clubs. We’re always looking for someone.”

Ugghh…oh, hey. Thanks to Tommy Bennett.