Seattle Mariners Top-10 Story Lines For 2015

Sep 26, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Dustin Ackley (13) runs towards third base after hitting a solo home run against the Los Angeles Angels during the fifth inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

6- Dustin Att-Ackley or Bust-in Ackley?

This is a do or die, make or break year for several players on the Mariners roster. At least it sure seems that way.

The 2nd overall pick of the 2009 draft, Dustin Ackley has frustrated fans and critics with his hot-and-cold routine of the past few seasons.

Just when fans are ready to give up on him, he earns the nickname Dustin Offensive Att-Ackley and silences the critics.

His first game of the 2015 season will be his 500th Major League game. In his first 499, Ackley has a slash of .245/.309/.366 with 36 homers and 182 RBI.

His 1.9 WAR in 2014 makes him a borderline starter, but like I said, he has shown flashes of brilliance.

In his short career, he absolutely rakes in July and August, by comparison to the rest of the year. He also has struggled against left-handed pitching.

Perhaps, Lloyd McClendon will use the recently acquired Justin Ruggiano not only in a platoon in right with Seth Smith, but also with Ackley in left.

And while Ackley hasn’t played the position since college, it’s possible that Lloyd could use Ackley as a backup first baseman, should something happen to Logan Morrison.