Seattle Mariners: Filling T-Mobile isn’t good enough anymore, M’s fans want a winner
PNWS Staff
|
Bob Melvin
Since the days of Sweet Lou, it’s been an exercise in futility. Bob Melvin lasted only two seasons, and I’ve got to ask why?
Did Melvin want more than the talent M’s management was willing to provide? It’s obvious to me the skipper knew what the Mariners needed to get over the hump after missing the playoffs by three games his first year (2003). Then not getting an extension after a disastrous second year.
Now, Melvin is in Oakland. Winning with the talent they provide to him. Since joining the Athletics in 2011, he’s gone to the playoffs six times and won American League Manager of the year twice. Meanwhile, M’s fans like me are shaking our heads. The success the A’s had while Seattle sent eight more managers through the revolving door is enough to drive a Mariners fan crazy. It makes me wonder what they’re trying to accomplish.
Lloyd McClendon
It certainly appeared M’s management wanted to see their team succeed when GM Jack Zduriencik brought Robinson Cano (2014) and Nelson Cruz (25) to Seattle. The duo joined six-time All-Star and 2010 A.L. Cy Young winner Felix Hernandez. With up-and-coming players on their roster, like Logan Morrison, Hisashi Iwakuma, James Paxton, and Kyle Seager, it looked like manager Lloyd McClendon had a winning team. Until it wasn’t.
While the Seattle Mariners showed glimpses of greatness, they wound up fielding a team that only entertained the fans with some flashy baseball. Cano daring runner to challenge his arm before whipping the ball to first base just in time entertained fans. There was also his quick bat, swatting out singles and doubles. Lest we not forget, BoomStick’s bombs certainly wowed the Emerald City faithful. Then they were gone too.
Next: Page 3 – Where we are today
>