What M’s initial spring training lineup looked like, according to Mariners Notebook.
For those entrenched in the Rogers Hornsby routine, eagerly awaiting the end of winter and the arrival of spring, today marks a significant event: baseball returns to the field. The Seattle Mariners kick off their Cactus League campaign with a match against the White Sox in Glendale at 12:05 Pacific time, and yes, there’s a lineup ready.
However, those anticipating insights into the opening day lineup will have to wait a bit longer, as some regular players will stay behind while the team heads to Camelback Ranch.
Traditionally, the Mariners start their spring with a home game in Peoria against the Padres, featuring most of the expected starters playing a few innings. But this year, due to the Padres opening the regular season in South Korea, the schedule has been adjusted, putting the Mariners on the road with a portion of the team left behind.
Manager Scott Servais plans to handle the early spring games by alternating between projected infield and outfield groups, with some players like Cal Raleigh, Mitch Haniger, and Mitch Garver having a slower ramp-up with more rest days between games. Servais believes that the usual extensive work and strain in spring training are unnecessary.
Servais also made changes to the spring schedule, reducing the number of night games. He prefers this adjustment to maintain consistency in the team’s work schedule.
In other Mariners news:
– Despite concerns about two bullpen relievers experiencing soreness after recent bullpen sessions, Servais remains optimistic about Gregory Santos and Matt Brash’s recovery.
– Brian Anderson has joined the Mariners with a split contract, potentially earning $2 million if he secures a spot on the major league roster. Servais sees Anderson as versatile, capable of playing both infield and outfield positions.
– Assistant pitching coach Danny Farquhar’s fluency in Spanish, stemming from his Venezuelan heritage, has proven valuable in communicating with players.
– Jhonathan Diaz and Luis Castillo are slated to start upcoming games, with none of the returning relievers scheduled to pitch in the first three games.
