Seattle Mariners: Building the best 2022 batting order
Batting 5th – Jarred Kelenic vs. Eugenio Suarez
If you’re sticking with the lefty-righty stagger through the lineup, then Jarred Kelenic is the likely choice here, unless manager Scott Servais chooses to go for a higher unproven situation. Kelenic struggled in his debut season with the Seattle Mariners but turned it around in September. The fifth position was Kelenic’s best spot in the lineup as he batted .231 with a .849 OPS.
Suarez excelled in this spot, as well, batting .232 with a .880 OPS. He also put up similar numbers batting sixth, and his best spot in the lineup was eighth.
Jarred Kelenic should get the first opportunity to bat fifth this season.
Jarred Kelenic with a 2-run BOMB to center field 💣 pic.twitter.com/jGP99sfLGf
— ROOT SPORTS™ | NW (@ROOTSPORTS_NW) April 4, 2022
Batting 6th – Julio Rodriguez vs. Catcher vs. Suarez vs. Frazier
Julio Rodriguez made the opening day roster. Along with a strong spring training, trading for Winker and Suarez actually solidifies that idea. Winker is a liability in the outfield, and Kelenic is better suited for a corner outfield spot, as is Haniger.
It’s feasible to let Winker DH most of the time, leaving J-Rod to roam centerfield. The rookie hasn’t played above Double-A yet, but he annihilated pitching at that level, to the tune of a .362 batting average and a 1.007 OPS.
Staying healthy is a concern as Rodriguez never played more than 84 minor league games in a season. After a strong spring training, he needs to expedite his transition to the Majors as soon as possible. This is the spot in the lineup for him to start his MLB career.
Julio Rodriguez should bat sixth as it fits his skill-set and the lefty-righty stagger.