Mariners plan to give regulars time off in ‘08
The Seattle Mariners would love to re-create 2001 all over again.
OK, winning 116 games is a stretch, especially for a team that won 88 last year and has a hard time explaining how they did it given their negative run differential.
But one aspect of the 2001 team that Mariners manager John McLaren would like to duplicate is the impact the bench players had on that team.
Former manager Lou Piniella used versatile veteran players like Mark McLemore and Stan Javier, rotating them into the lineup regularly at various positions. It kept them sharp and allowed the starters to get regular rest.
McLaren hopes to use that formula this year, even with a group of starters known to be belligerent about taking a day off, and will likely look for versatility when making roster decisions.
“I don’t like guys on the bench just sitting around,” McLaren said. “We’ve got to use them and keep them sharp. Sometimes the regulars don’t understand because they want to play.”
McLaren already has talked with third baseman Adrian Beltre, who fights to stay in the lineup even when he’s hurt, and he’s pleased in how catcher Kenji Johjima remained fresh most of last season even though Johjima’s stated goal is to play every game.
Selig not done with report
Baseball commissioner Bud Selig is still reviewing cases of players accused of taking performance-enhancing drugs outlined in the Mitchell Report.
Selig initially hoped to complete his review by spring training. Monday, he said he doesn’t know when he will finish or what punishment he’ll pursue.
On the subject, Milwaukee Brewers reliever Eric Gagne, identified in the report as having used HGH, also issued a general apology for “a distraction that shouldn’t be taking place.”
Schilling preferred surgery
Curt Schilling finally faced reporters – and an uncertain future. If the shoulder rehabilitation he reluctantly agreed to fails, he knows his brilliant career could be over.
The one-time Red Sox ace also denied that he was hurt when he signed an $8 million contract last November.
Speaking publicly for the first time about his preference for surgery, Boston’s 41-year-old right-hander said he had to follow the team’s insistence on rehab because he is under contract.
Clearing the bases
Los Angeles Angels closer Francisco Rodriguez is going to arbitration and could be heading out the door at the end of the season. Rodriguez is asking $12.5 million for this year and the Angels are offering $10 million, with arbitration set for Feb. 21. … Toronto Blue Jays center fielder Vernon Wells said his left shoulder is feeling close to “100 percent” after surgery last September shortened his worst season as a pro. … Veteran outfielder Trot Nixon has worked out for the Arizona Diamondbacks in Tucson, Ariz., as a possible addition should Chad Tracy not be ready to play when the season opens.