2006 Seattle Mariners Preview
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2006 Seattle Mariners Season Preview
Summary:
The Seattle Mariners offered little excitement for fans in 2005, ending the season with a 69-93 record. This was only a slight improvement from the previous year, making it the third-worst record in the American League.
2005 Overview:
In 2005, the Seattle Mariners struggled to deliver satisfactory performances, concluding the season with the American League’s third-worst record at 69-93. Offensively, they managed just 699 runs, ranking only ahead of the Minnesota Twins.
The lineup saw limited highlights, though Richie Sexson (.263, 39 HR, 121 RBIs) quickly became a fan favorite, while Adrian Beltre (.255, 19 HR, 87 RBIs) contributed modestly. Raul Ibanez (.280, 20 HR, 89 RBIs) and Ichiro Suzuki (.303, 15 HR, 88 RBIs, 33 steals) provided additional support, but overall, the offense lacked firepower.
On the pitching front, consistency was an issue. Jamie Moyer (13-7, 4.28 ERA) and Gil Meche (10-8, 5.89 ERA) were the only starters with winning records. Ryan Franklin (8-15, 5.10 ERA) and Joel Pineiro (7-11, 5.62 ERA) struggled significantly. However, rookie Felix Hernandez (4-4, 2.67 ERA) emerged as a promising talent. Debuting in August, Hernandez impressed by striking out 45 batters in 44 innings, notably maintaining a 1.66 ERA against left-handed hitters. Eddie Guardado (2-3, 2.72 ERA, 36 saves) was a bright spot in the bullpen, doubling his save total from 2004.
Offseason Moves:
The Mariners made several strategic moves in the off-season, re-signing Jamie Moyer on December 7th to bring stability to the pitching roster. They also added Jarrod Washburn (8-8, 3.20 ERA) to enhance the rotation, and strengthened their lineup with the acquisitions of Matt Lawton (.254, 13 HR, 53 RBIs) and Carl Everett (.251, 23 HR, 87 RBIs). Veteran infielder Fernando Vina was also brought in, despite limited play in 2005 (.226 in 29 games with Detroit).
2006 Outlook:
Under new pitching coach Rafael Chaves, the Mariners aim to bring stability to the rotation with Hernandez and Moyer leading the charge. Hernandez, in particular, is expected to evolve with added guidance. The additions of Everett and Lawton should boost the lineup, providing better support for Sexson, Beltre, and Suzuki. This revamped offense is anticipated to surpass last year’s 699-run tally. However, depth in the starting rotation remains an area of concern.
Kevin Appier, signed to a minor league contract, could be a surprise asset if healthy. He was a 14-game winner in 2002, and the Mariners are hopeful he can make a comeback. Fans should watch for potential breakthroughs as Seattle looks to climb out of the division’s basement.
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