Mariners Analysis: Who’s Hot and Who’s Not


May 16, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners third base coach Rich Donnelly (left) congratulates designated hitter Brad Miller (5) after his solo home run in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Stock Rising – Brad Miller
Brad Miller has caught a ton of grief from Mariners fans, and most of the time it is fair. He’s shown flashes of being a productive Major League Baseball player, but hasn’t been able to piece it all together. Brad had a very productive spring, and that combined with Chris Taylor’s injury allowed him to slide in as the opening day shortstop. Well, he got off to a slow start and since Chris Taylor’s return from the DL, he’s been moved to a “super utility role”.
For most young players, this could be discouraging, but Brad has responded quite impressively. Since last Sunday he is hitting .375 with three doubles and four homeruns, two of his four big flies coming May 16th against the Red Sox. Those two big flies also proved to be the only offensive output the Mariners would receive that game in their 4-2 loss. He also hit a home run in the series finale against the Red Sox to end the series red hot. Seattle Mariners manager Lloyd McClendon has noticed something he likes with Brad, moving him from his typical nine hole spot, to batting second in the order, and even batting leadoff in the series finale vs the Red Sox.
In the last week, something has lit a fire within Brad Miller, and I’m not exactly sure what it is. Whether it’s being moved to the super utility role, or being moved up in the batting order, the Mariners and Mariners faithful are hoping that we are finally watching him turn the corner and blossom into a productive everyday major league ballplayer.
Next: Chris Taylor