Mariners Analysis: Handicapping the M’s Demotion Candidates (Poll)

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May 28, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Dustin Ackley (13) walks back to the dugout after striking out during the ninth inning of a 5-3 loss to the Cleveland Indians at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

Dustin Ackley – LF 

Rickie Weeks’ platoon partner has been equally as disappointing this season. Ackley excelled during the second half of last season and this spring, but his production has fallen off a cliff over the past 6 weeks.

The Ack-Attack is hitting just .188 with 4 home runs and 10 RBI’s across 117 at bats in 2015. Ackley has posted a miserable .230 on base percentage and slugged .325. The bearded wonder started the season hot, hitting .304 with 3 home runs and 3 RBI’s during his first 8 games. However, he has hit just .151 with 1 home run and 7 RBI’s since.

Nobody can complain about Ackley’s skills in the field. He has proven himself to be one of the most important and versatile defenders the Mariners have. Ackley has played all 3 outfield spots this season, and has seen extended time in both left and center field. He remains the only player on the Mariners’ regular to be error free in 2015. Ackley has also made a couple highlight reel grabs in the past couple weeks.

The 27-year-old UNC alum is another Mariner out of minor league options. Just like Weeks, Ackley would have to pass through waivers if Seattle opts to send him down to Tacoma. The Ack-Attack still has some potential left, and does not become a free agent until following the 2017 season. When you factor in his age, it is highly unlikely no other team places a claim on Ackley.

I think Dustin Ackley is the least likely candidate to be demoted. He is starting to show signs of life at the plate, and I do not think Jack Zduriencik is quite ready to give up on the former no.2 overall pick. I would not be surprised to see Ackley traded in the coming month, but I doubt the M’s let him out the door for nothing.

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