Mariners Analysis: Updating the M’s Utility Infielder Position Battle

Mar 17, 2016; Mesa, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners shortstop Luis Sardinas (R) talks to Oakland Athletics third base coach Ron Washington (38) during the third inning at HoHoKam Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 17, 2016; Mesa, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners shortstop Luis Sardinas (R) talks to Oakland Athletics third base coach Ron Washington (38) during the third inning at HoHoKam Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 17, 2016; Mesa, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners shortstop Luis Sardinas (R) talks to Oakland Athletics third base coach Ron Washington (38) during the third inning at HoHoKam Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 17, 2016; Mesa, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners shortstop Luis Sardinas (R) talks to Oakland Athletics third base coach Ron Washington (38) during the third inning at HoHoKam Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

Luis Sardinas

The Seattle Mariners acquired the 22-year-old infielder from the Milwaukee Brewers this winter. Sardinas has wasted little time making an impact with his new club, posting a .406 batting average with 1 home run and a team high, 10 RBI across 7 games. He has tallied 13 hits in his first 32 at bats. Sardinas has utilized his plus speed very effectively, legging out 4 doubles, 1 triple and stealing 1 base so far this spring.

The switch-hitting Venezuela native has struggled at the plate during his first two seasons in the big leagues. He registered a .196/.240/.216 slash line through 36 games with the Brew Crew in 2015. Sardinas has very little power, and he has yet to hit a home run during his 230 career plate appearances in the big leagues. He did perform better with the Brewers Class-AAA affiliate last season, hitting .282 with 1 home run, 33 RBI and 16 stolen bases in 103 games.

Sardinas has an angular build (6’1/150 lbs.) and his glove work is considered his most valuable asset. He has experience playing second base, third base and shortstop in the big leagues. It’s interesting to note that Jerry Dipoto praised Sardinas during the M’s game with the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday. It’s clear Dipoto views him as the early favorite to make the opening day roster.

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