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Out With Smoak, In With…Mike Napoli?
By Dan Shearer
Oct 24, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox first baseman Mike Napoli (12) warms up during batting practice prior to game two of the MLB baseball World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
With the World Series behind us the offseason is starting to take shape for the Seattle Mariners. The team got off on the right track after the hiring of Lloyd McClendon. With free agency looming over our heads, here is quick look at what might be the next big move for the M’s.
I may just be starting another Mariners free agency rumor but I think we should take another look at signing Mike Napoli. I can feel the collective ‘duh’ thoughts after reading that last sentence just so you know. The Mariners missed out on Napoli last season, which at the time may have looked like a good decision due to a lingering ankle injury and hip injury. But after seeing how Napoli contributed to the Boston Red Sox this season, you can’t help but want him on your team.
He came into October one of the hotter hitters in the American League. After a season of confusing stat lines for Napoli, he seemed to make an adjustment in September which carried him and the Sox into October versus Detroit.
He finished the 2013 regular season at .259/.360/.482 with a .842 OPS. The frustration Napoli started for everyone is the ups and downs of his swing. He is either hot or cold, there is no in between.
His strikeout numbers totaled 187. This stat should be over looked by everyone though. Just ask if Baltimore Orioles and Chicago White Sox fans care how many times Chris Davis or Adam Dunn strikeout.
My hope is that the Mariners will bring him in to help us forget about the Justin Smoak – Cliff Lee trade. Napoli would be able to play first base full time and would give us a much needed right handed power hitter in our lineup.
I can already hear “fear the beard” chants at Safeco and I don’t know about you but I am looking for any excuse to wear my Mariners beard hat.