Robinson Cano’s double powers Mariners past Indians 5-2

PEORIA, Ariz. – Robinson Cano’s two-run double highlighted a three-run fifth inning Thursday night that carried the Mariners to a 5-2 victory over Cleveland at Peoria Stadium.

Right-hander Taijuan Walker turned in four more scoreless innings in his bid to win a spot in the rotation. He walked two and gave up two hits while striking out five. He has 12 scoreless innings in his four spring starts.

“I feel like there’s still some work left to do, definitely,” Walker said. “I’ve got to get my innings up to five or six. But everything feels good.”

Walker worked himself into a one-out jam in the second by yielding a single, hitting a batter and issuing a walk. But he struck out Jose Ramirez and retired Erik Gonzalez on a high pop to left.

Play(s) of the game: Left fielder Dustin Ackley made a sliding catch after a long run to his right. He also made a diving catch for the final out in the second with the bases loaded.

Plus: Alex Jackson, the organization’s top prospect, had a single in his first career Cactus League at-bat.

Job battles: Walker continues to set a high bar for fellow starting roation candidate Roenis Elias to match. Elias is starting today against Texas.