David Aardsma
One day after claiming no one is stepping up in the role of closer, the P-I's John Hickey is writing about how David Aardsma may have pushed himself ahead of the crowd.
Playing for his fifth team in just as many seasons, Aardsma has had a solid spring outing. Most recently, he pitched a scoreless inning
against Team Australia, a game in which Mariners pitchers gave up 11 runs.
Only once has he finished a season with a sub-5.00 ERA, and he has yet to record a save in the majors after breaking the record for saves at Rice University. At 27 years old, this may be his last chance to cement himself on a big-league roster.
To continue...
At the World Baseball Classic, Ichiro's struggles are worrying Japan, whose hopes of a repeat world championship may hinge on their greatest star.
It may be a source of concern for Mariners fans as well. Last season, Ichiro hit for the second worst batting average of his career at .310. Still good numbers but a definite downgrade, and at 35 years old, it's only a matter of time before Ichiro begins to steadily decline.
With age comes a decrease in hand-eye coordination and reaction time, two huge strengths for Ichiro. Of course, he hit for the second-best average of his career two seasons ago, and perhaps he'll be over this slump once the MLB season begins.
At The News Tribune, Larry Larue states the obvious. Yes, Franklin Gutierrez will be the M's starting center fielder, and yes, he plays a lot like Mike Cameron, a former fan favorite in Seattle.
Pitcher Brandon Morrow will miss a start Saturday against the L.A. Dodgers. Designated hitter Mike Sweeney may also get his first game time of the spring Saturday, as the Mariners have asked the Dodgers to use a DH in the game.
Sweeney's had a great career but injuries have limited him the past three seasons, and with Ken Griffey Jr. on board, he may not make the team.
Reach Jeff Richards at nextseasonsports@gmail.com
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