When Cano Talks, Mariners Listen

Mar 12, 2014; Peoria, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners second baseman Robinson Cano (22) warms up before facing the Chicago Cubs at Peoria Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

I continue to see a trend since the Mariners signed Robinson Cano to a gajillion dollar contract this offseason. That trend being that the questions and media attention no longer surround Felix Hernandez. This is proving to be a good thing for the Mariners, because when Cano talks the M’s front office seems to listen.

A couple of weeks ago the Mariners new 2nd baseman was on ESPN and gave a few thoughts on the team as it stands right now. Robby was not hesitant in saying that ‘we need an extra bat’. An obvious statement but still enough to stir up the pot in the rumor mill. Since that we have seen all sorts of rumors linking the Mariners to right handed bats.

Drink the Kool-Aid on this one people, Cano even mentioned names he wanted during this interview. Kendrys Morales being one of those names. This even woke the sleeping giant, Jack Zduriencik, who came out of his slumber to let us know that there have been on going ‘negotiations‘ to bring the switch hitter back to Seattle.

This is a tough pill to swallow, I know, but this team needed a voice. We have found that voice. He is the type of player that makes everyone around him better and it shows. I feel that there has always been a big gap between the clubhouse and the front office and perhaps Cano will bridge that gap.

This roster is hungry for wins but it is obvious we are still missing a few pieces.

There has been more trade rumors surrounding Nick Franklin, the only one that has caught my eye this week is rumors that the Tampa Bay Rays have shown interest in the young shortstop/2nd baseman.

How does this relate to Cano? Did you catch the rest of that interview where Cano kicked the tires on rating our starting rotation? He wanted Ervin Santana (who didn’t), but Santana apparently did not want to pitch in the American League. Even though we missed out on Santana, would Cano being vocal about our rotation push the front office to maybe make another attempt at a David Price trade?

Stay tuned!