Well, we finally made it to the big leagues. Chinacimpanu didn’t have to put on a show. In fact, we did everything right and actually made an impression. The bad news is that our first game was against top-notch competition. The disappointing news is that the last couple of games haven’t been as fun as they could have been. Our team has grown so much this year, but it still feels like home. But at least we have one base left!
What’s next?
Well, basically, we’re going to have to wait and see how our first game goes against reigning Cy Young winner Felix Hernandez. We can’t guarantee that we’ll enjoy it as much as we would have preferred, but at least we can look forward to it and prepare for the weekend.
Game 1: RHP Zack Godin to LHP Ivan Nova
Here we go, Brian. Our first game against the guy we all want to field a team in the near future. Let’s put it on the calendar and get it done. We’re going to the spring training games, but first, let’s see what we’re made of.
Game 2: RHP Kevin Long to LHP Julio Urias
It’s a great sign that the trade that sent Anthony Bachele and Damian Miller to the Rays has officially been consummated. We know that Bachele is going to the big leagues and that Miller will be working his way back to the rotation. We also know that Urias has been working his way back to the bullpen and is already one of the better relievers in the game. A good trade can come together, and we can expect to see both guys on the field for the Rays for some time.
Game 3: RHP Mike Clevinger to SS Carlos Santana
This one is a game-changer, folks. The Mariners signed Clevinger to be their full-time second baseman and now he’s got the full support of the management. Santana is a great player, but his impact on the team while on the field is limited. Since Clevinger is a fielder’s prospect, it will be interesting to see if the management starts throwing him around more.
Game 4: RHP Jeff Weaver to SS Robinson Chirinos
We say this all the time, but the Combination of Jeff Weaver and Robinson Chirinos has to be one of the best off-season acquisitions in the history of the Mariners organization. The combination of former first-round pick and current All-Star shortstop has created a rare combination of talent. When you look at the lineup right now, it is an ideal foundation to build a team around.
Final Thoughts
Well, Brian, that’s it for this week. It’s been an interesting ride, but we’re all in agreement that the most important thing for us to do is take our team to the next level this season. We’re doing that by working our way up the major leagues, and right now, we’re just getting started. We’re at the point in our development where we’re ready to start putting the pieces of a team together. Now, it’s time to get down to business. The Mariners will be in action this weekend in Florida against the Marlins and on Monday, they travel to Los Angeles to take on the LA Angels. Make sure you’re in the know on all the latest developments with the club, and don’t forget to check out the team on the web site at www.mariners.com . Be sure to follow the team on Twitter and Facebook as well and don’t forget to check out our YouTube page for some team highlights and other videos from around the web. Now, it’s your turn. How do you like what you’ve seen so far this season? Do you think the team is ready to take their spot in the history books? Or do you think they need more time to develop? Let’s find out in the What’s Next? section above. – Nick Vitello
What’s Next?
There are many things that make up a team, but perhaps the most important one, in my opinion, is their record when competing against that team the previous season. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the teams that have made the most of the time since joining the big leagues. MLB Team of the Week – October 5 – The New York Mets earned their first win of the season when they traded for Mets shortstop Rubby De la Rosa. The trade sent catcher Jonathan Marrero to the Mets, who in turn sent outfielder Brandon Nimmo to the Phillies. The move was a clear indication that the Mets were looking to make a push for the NL East title. MLB.com Game of the Week – October 2 – The Chicago White Sox won their second game of the week when they went on the offensive when they scored three runs in the bottom of the first on their way to a 5-0 win over the New York Yankees. White Sox starter Ken Giles faced the first batter he faced that day and recorded a strikeout.
