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

Jun 19, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners designated hitter Nelson Cruz (23) tosses his bat after drawing a bases loaded walk in the first inning to score first baseman Logan Morrison (20) from third against the Houston Astros at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

Stock Down: Nelson Cruz

It was only a matter of time for the veteran slugger to cool down, and he is just starting to reach that point. In his last seven games Cruz is just 4 for 22 with a homerun and three RBIs. But, all is not lost, as he has been able to work six walks in the process. I wouldn’t read too much into this to be completely honest. Baseball is an incredibly tough game, and you are going to have you peaks and valleys. But I think teams are starting to realize that they have to make anyone but Nelson Cruz beat them, and he is getting very few pitches to hit because of it.

Regardless of his recent struggles, Cruz still sports an impressive batting average of .315, and an even more impressive OBP of .382. What this does show is how much the Mariners’ have been relying on him, and how much they need him. When the 34-year-old slugger is struggling, this lineup has an incredibly tough time piecing anything together. It’s unfair to ask so much from someone, but the M’s really need to get Cruz going again, or this offense will go from awful, to unbearable.

Next: Taijuan Walker