From Stem to Stern: Dusting Off The Brooms

The Mariners today managed to complete the three game sweep of the Oakland A’s. It’s been a long time since they’ve completed a sweep of anyone. They’ve now won 3 of their last 4, and 5 of their last 7 games. Suddenly that ugly losing streak seems like a long time ago. It’ll be interesting to see if they can keep it going against better competition.

Captain: Dustin Ackley (5 of 12, 1 double, 2 triples, 2 walks)
Walkin the Plank: Adam Kennedy (0 of 8 with 3 strike outs)
Impressive: Charlie Furbush (5 innings, just one ER. very efficient)
Depressing: Jeff Grey (1.2 inning, 3 ER. Needed a strike out on the same pitch that he hit a batter for it not to be worse)

Wells makes impression

Casper Wells was never meant to the be the answer to what ails the Mariners offense. At least at this point in his career, he’s a good 4th outfielder who can play great defense and add a bit of pop every once in a while. Unfortunately, the Mariners outfielders have underperformed so badly this season that Wells is arguably the team’s best outfielder right now.

Because of this, Wells is going to get a lot of playing time and, at least so far, he’s making the most of it. Over the three game series, Wells went 5 of 11 (.455) with a HR.

The all-rookie heart of the order

Ackley, Carp, Wells. The trio of rookies hit in the 3, 4, and 5 holes in the series finale, with Ackley and Carp hitting in the 3 and 4 spots all series. Usually that is not a recipe for success, but it has worked out well for the Mariners.

The three rookies combined to go 15 of 37 (.405) with 2 doubles, 2 triples and a home run during the series. Until one of them falters, or one of the vets reasserts himself, I expect the Mariners to continue depending on this trio going forward, at least against right handed pitchers.

Injuries abound

Chone Figgins is on the DL now with a hip flexor injury. Justin Smoak injured his thumb and had to come out of the game on Tuesday because he couldn’t swing a bat.

While the Figgins injury probably doesn’t worry anyone, the Smoak injury is significant. The M’s were really hoping he could get back on track for the remainder of the season and allow them to evaluate what his role will be in the future for this team.