Lloyd McClendon Shakes Up Mariners Lineup Yet Again

Apr 26, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners Abraham Almonte (36) passes his leadoff spot to Michael Saunders (55) who has a better shot of keeping it long term, as is evidenced by this home run trot in Saturday’s game. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

In an effort to shake some offense out of this team, manager Lloyd McClendon has tinkered with the Mariners lineup for Sunday’s matinee rubber match against the Texas Rangers.

The most notable subtraction is that of Abraham Almonte, not only from the leadoff spot – as was the case last night – but from the lineup all together. Almonte’s struggles have been well-documented across the web and we are no exception.

Not sure if this is just simply to give Almonte an extra day off – with an off day coming tomorrow as well – or if this is a sign of things to come. Either way, Michael Saunders will get the start in center and bat leadoff.

Here is the Mariners lineup for today’s game:

1. Michael Saunders – CF
2. Stefen Romero – RF
3. Robinson Cano – 2B
4. Corey Hart – DH
5. Justin Smoak – 1B
6. Cole Gillespie – LF
7. Kyle Seager – 3B
8. John Buck – C
9. Willie Bloomquist – SS

Also worth noting, Bloomquist getting the start at SS today for the struggling Brad Miller. Cole Gillespie getting another start in left for Dustin Ackley today. I’d say that John Buck getting the start for Mike Zunino was noteworthy but it’s simply giving a catcher a day off on a day game after a night game. We haven’t seen Buck since last weekend in Miami.

Also, look at the orientation of the hitters. Left-Right-Left-Right-Switch-Right-Left-Right-Right. Looks more like a classic lineup, alternating your lefties and righties to throw off opposing managers from being able to use their specialists out of the pen late in games.

We shall find out this afternoon if it works or not and what effect it will have on the lineups of future games. But I like the changes, I like Saunders at leadoff. I’d like Seager higher, maybe at the No. 2, but if Romero can contribute I have no problem with him there.

Ladies and gentleman, I give you your New-Look Seattle Mariners.