Mariners Win First Game of Spring

As we know spring training games don't
mean a whole lot except those trying to
make the team. The Mariners did win the
opening game 5-4 with Julio Rodriguez
driving in Jarred Kelenic with the winning
run in the bottom of the 9th inning. Something
we hope to see a lot of in the future for sure.

The Mariners did start the game with what is

expected to be their opening day lineup. The

only exception might be Jake Fraley who started

in left field. I actually hope he wins the spot if

Jarred Kelenic doesn't open the season in Seattle.

Mitch Haniger started in right field and had a

hit in his first at bat. He batted in the second spot

of the order. Could be where he is all season long

however his versatility he could end up anywhere

in the order.

Kyle Lewis and Kyle Seager batted third and fourth

in the lineup as they did most of last season. As we

know this will be Seager's last season in Seattle 

whether he gets traded this year or  his option isn't

picked up after the season. 

The rest of the lineup was Ty France at dh followed

by Dylan Moore at second, Evan White at first, Tom

Murphy at catcher, with Jake Fraley in left. 

As we have looked at the position players and will

continue for several more posts JP Crawford is the

Mariners starting shortstop. Right now he looks to

continue in leadoff spot. His two previous seasons

Crawford has gotten off to a good start hitting but

not so much in the second half. We hope he is in

shape to have a full season at the plate. Of course,

he will have his moments where he will be in a

slump, however, it only happens for a short period

of time. Crawford's best spot would be second in

the lineup where being a left-handed hitter he can

move the runner along by pulling the ball. The 

Mariners don't have too many to lead off at this

point.

Crawford we hope another steady time on the

defense side as he one the gold glove last season.

When he needs a day off the best choice would

be utility player Sam Haggerty though Dylan Moore

can fill in as well. Donovan Walton came in at short

in this first game for Crawford so if he misses anytime

Walton could be the guy at short. He likely will be

starting the season at Tacoma. Want him playing every

day instead of being on the bench.

So this is what we see the options at shortstop though

Crawford will be in the lineup most of the time. Next

up will be third base. Go M's.