Mariners Weekly Rundown: Tough Times have Returned to Seattle
![Jun 10, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners designated hitter Nelson Cruz (23) looks as his helmet after it flew off his head while swinging at a pitch during the fifth inning against the Texas Rangers at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports Jun 10, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners designated hitter Nelson Cruz (23) looks as his helmet after it flew off his head while swinging at a pitch during the fifth inning against the Texas Rangers at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fsodomojo-com-2Ffiles-2F2016-2F06-2Fnelson-cruz-mlb-texas-rangers-seattle-mariners-850x560-4f96ce4e702b55b90a42719e4144d51d.jpg)
Benoit has Bumpy Week
Things did not go smoothly for Joaquin Benoit this week. The 38-year-old right-hander struggled as the Mariners setup man, going 0-1 with a 10.12 ERA across 3 appearances. Benoit allowed 4 runs (3 earned) on 3 hits, including 2 home runs. He struck out 1 and walked 1 through 2.2 innings pitched. All in all, it was a pretty forgettable week for Benoit.
Benoit has been somewhat of a disappointment in his first season with Seattle. After registering a sub-3 ERA in each of the prior three seasons, Benoit has gone 1-1 with a 4.26 ERA through his first 13 appearances in 2016. He has also spent some time on the disabled list. With a number of quality righty relievers in the M’s bullpen, Benoit will need to improve if he hopes to hang on to 8th inning duties.
Next: Pax-Man was a Superhero this Week