Mariners Weekly Rundown: Who’s Hot and Who’s Not

Apr 23, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Seattle Mariners right fielder Nelson Cruz (23) celebrates hitting a solo home run in the 6th inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 23, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Seattle Mariners right fielder Nelson Cruz (23) celebrates hitting a solo home run in the 6th inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports /
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April 22, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Norichika Aoki (8) reacts after being picked off at first in the second inning against Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
April 22, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Norichika Aoki (8) reacts after being picked off at first in the second inning against Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /

Aoki in not A-OK

Last week was less than spectacular for the Mariners’ leadoff man. Nori Aoki posted a .136 batting average after going 3 for 22 in 6 games. He did hit 1 double, 1 triple, drive in 3 runs and score 4. However, his main job is to get on base and he failed in this regard. Aoki registered a .269 on base percentage and slugged .273.

The 34-year-old has not been quite as productive as advertised this season. The Mariners signed Aoki to be their leadoff man in 2016, but he has slashed just .211/.263/.310 in 71 at bats. He has struck out 11 times and walked 4 times in 18 games. He has played solid defense in left field, but he needs to do a better job of sparking the M’s offense by getting on base.

Next: Cishek Brings Stability to the 9th inning