6 losses in a row, where do the Seattle Mariners go from here
The lineup
The Seattle Mariners’ current team batting average is .200, along with a .279 on-base percentage. It wouldn’t even be that high if pitchers Justus Sheffield and Justin Dunn hadn’t gotten hits in San Diego. It’s no secret the M’s offense hasn’t been good this year. Already Jose Marmolejos, Taylor Trammell, and Luis Torrens played themselves off the roster. Also, phenom Jarred Kelenic hasn’t gotten off to an MLB start anyone would like.
Injuries haven’t helped. In April, France hit .289. After being hit on the wrist by a pitch, his average dropped to .229. Finally, he went on the IL on May 13. Evan White, Dylan Moore, and Jake Fraley are also out of action. Without White, Marmolejos, France, and Moore, the Mariners are down to 2021’s “King of Retreads” Jacob Nottingham at first base. Some good news, France might be back during the Oakland series.
Short-term Outlook
When France is back in the lineup, the Mariners should go back to something that worked for them earlier this year. Mitch Haniger goes back to batting leadoff with France number two, followed by Kyle Seager and Kyle Lewis. From there, JP Crawford or Jarred Kelenic could hit in some combination of fifth and sixth.
Expect some combination of Donavan Walton, Sam Haggerty, Erik Campbell, Jack Mayfield, and Nottingham to be the first baseman/ second baseman and designated hitter. At least until White or Moore comes back. Catcher Tom Murphy (batting .133) or recent call-up Jose Godoy round out the batting order.
Sports photography
Ty France is hit by a pitch from Dodgers starter Dustin May in the 5th. He would not return to the game. (Dean Rutz / The Seattle Times)@XXXL74 @ChemicalAT @SteveRRamirez @SGVNSports pic.twitter.com/XwEIMxbODN
— Sports Plus (@PrepSportsPlus) April 20, 2021