M’s release slump-ridden Scott Spezio

The Seattle Mariners released slumping first baseman Scott Spiezio on Friday night.

Relegated to a reserve role in his second season with the Mariners, the 31-year-old Spiezio was batting .064 (3 for 47) with one homer and one RBI. His ninth-inning single Thursday ended an 0-for-23 slump.

“I thought it might happen earlier,” said Spiezio, who requested a trade before the season. “I knew (manager Mike Hargrove) liked to play his guys and it was going to be hard to get at-bats.

“It was really hard for me. It’s something I’ve never had to deal with before. I’m not very good at it.”

Spiezio signed a $9.15 million, three-year contract with Seattle before the 2004 season. He spent the previous four years in Anaheim, where he played a key role in the Angels’ 2002 World Series victory over San Francisco.

“I still feel like I can play the game,” Spiezio said. “I know I’m a guy that needs consistent at-bats. Hopefully, I can get them somewhere.”

The Mariners are expected to call up infielder Greg Dobbs from Triple-A Tacoma to replace Spiezio on the roster.

Beltre a wronged man

Adrian Beltre’s telephone didn’t stop ringing Friday, and he could be forgiven for not answering every call. All day on ESPN there was video – and an incorrect report – saying Beltre and teammate Ryan Franklin had scuffled in the Seattle dugout Thursday night.

Not surprisingly, those who knew Beltre were surprised.

“I think 10 guys from the Dodgers called today and said ‘What did you do?’ ” Beltre said. “I guess now I’m a baaaad man.”

Beltre laughed, but try explaining to dozens of people that no, you weren’t in a fight and that all the video showed was Beltre moving Franklin away from a loud argument in which no blows were thrown or landed.