Mariners First Loss in Spring

On Friday the Seattle Mariners had their first loss of spring training after winning the first two games. They lost to the Milwaukee Brewers and starting pitcher TaiJuan Walker had a so so game. He actually got the side over in the first however struggled in the second game. He says that he struggled with his fast ball. The other pitchers for the Mariners were not much better except Paul Fry who is minor leaguer invited to camp to compete for the second left handed pitcher out of the bullpen. He has not pitched any higher than double A hard to know his real chances though he did a good job Friday. Most likely he will start in Tacoma and be ready if the Mariners need him.

Outfielder Mike Baxter was player of the game for the Mariners against the Brewers. He hit a home run and made a diving catch. He likely will start in Tacoma at triple A because the Mariners don’t have a spot open in the outfield unless someone comes down with an injury.  Boog Powell would likely be the first outfielder called up or make the opening roster because he is on the 40 man roster while Mike Baxter and Daniel Robertson another camp invitee are not. The Marines would have to remove some from the 40 man roster for them to make the team.

Right now it is hard to say who the right handed hitter platoon at first base will be though Jesus Montero has to be considered the front runner though Dae-Ho Lee has a buyout if he doesn’t make the roster before the end of training camp. Gaby Sanchez another possibility will most likely start at Tacoma. Another choice Stefan Romero who was injured in Thursday game against the Padres could be a really good choice because he can play the outfield as well. Like Montero he is on the 40 man roster. If everything equals out though likely we will see Montero at first base.

Today Nelson Cruz makes his spring training debut at designated hitter while Mike Zunino be started at catcher. Steve Clevenger acquired for Mark Trumbo from the Baltimore Orioles will see some duty at catcher too.  We will see Marte, Seager, and Cano all in the starting lineup as well today along with Adam Lind at first base. Robertson, Powell and Gutierrez will be the starting outfield from left to right. Miley who right now is the lone lefty in the starting rotation who the Mariners acquired from the Boston Red Sox makes his spring training debut today.

The Mariners take on the Angels today in the Cactus league. Though winning is not important we hope to see better things from the players especially those fighting for a roster spot. Go Mariners!