Seattle Mariners Throwback Thursday: Franklin Gutierrez

In my first article with Sodo Mojo, I included Dylan Moore in a list of the Mariners hitters I’m most excited to watch in 2022 and, understandably was met with much contention from readers. Heck, I don’t even know for sure that D-Mo will be on the opening day roster in 2021, but nevertheless, he remains one of my favorite Mariners. Just like another Mariners outfielder from the past, Franklin Gutierrez.

Throughout the late 2000s and early 2010s, I held a similar sentiment for Franklin Gutierrez. Guti wasn’t an overwhelming fan favorite, or even really one of the best players on the team during his time in Seattle. But what he did bring to the table was a love for the game that was as visible on his face and any player I’ve watched in my lifetime. His stats weren’t overwhelming, but his passion kept me engaged.

Hopefully, you remember Guti’s Mariners days, as he was one of the few mainstays in the outfield from 2009-2011. After that, he made the occasional plate appearance for the team from 2012-2017 as a part of their rotating door of outfielders during that era due to injuries that kept him from returning as the everyday centerfielder.

Here’s a look at a few of the biggest moments from Franklin Gutierrez’s career as a Seattle Mariner.

Franklin Gutierrez Walk-Off Home Run

In the rubber match of this 3-game set against the Blue Jays, Guti said enough is enough and drove this ball over the wall in center to give the Mariners a 2-1 series win over Toronto.

“Death to Flying Things”

Guti sells out to make the grab on this nice play in center field. Gutierrez was an excellent defensive outfielder, though he didn’t get nearly enough recognition for his efforts due to a lack of playing time, as well as the lack of attention that was focused on Seattle at the time.

Franklin Gutierrez’ 2012 Highlights

Guti dealt with injuries on and off for a good portion of his career. But when he suited up, he gave it his all. I wanted to share this clip of a few of his Mariner highlights from what wasn’t one of his stronger seasons with the club to appreciate the heart he put into every aspect of his game, even while battling constant injuries. (Sorry about the music, this was the best video I could find).

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While Gutierrez’s career was cut short due to an inflammatory disease, he made his time in Seattle worthwhile as one of the bright spots during his time with the Mariners that saw the team fail to meet expectations time and again. Despite his minor role with the team during his later years with the club, he is remembered fondly by Mariners fans like myself who hoped to catch a glimmer of joy during a dark time in Mariner’s history.