President of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto confirms Eugenio Suarez is set to return to action on Tuesday for the Mariners as the designated hitter.
The Mariners have received some much-needed good news ahead of their final homestand of the 2022 regular season. Eugenio Suarez is set to return to action on Tuesday night, for the beginning of the three-game series versus Texas.
The update was provided on Monday by president of baseball operations, Jerry Dipoto. Suarez will initially be used as a DH, as the small fracture in his right index finger is still affecting him defensively.
The timing of this news is as important as it is positive. Seattle is returning from an extremely disappointing 3-7 road trip versus three teams guaranteed to finish this season below .500.
Despite missing the past nine games, Suarez still leads the Mariners in home runs and RBIs. He also has a slash line of .235/.335/.470, which is a strong improvement from last year’s .198/.286/.428.
Aside from his offensive impact, the 2018 All-Star’s veteran leadership has been invaluable since arriving in a trade from Cincinnati. Combined with his positive approach to baseball and life in general, this has made him a clubhouse leader.
Suarez has also proved to be one of Seattle’s most reliable players defensively. However, until he is ready to return to third base, Abraham Toro and Ty France will continue to split playing time here.
Obviously the return of Suarez will provide an immediate boost to the slumping Mariners. However, this wasn’t the only positive news that was announced on Monday.
Good progress for the franchise superstar
Dipoto also advised Julio Rodriguez is looking good in his recovery from a lower back strain. As such, there is no concern he will be ready to go once his own 10 days on the injured list are up.
When Rodriguez first went to the IL, there was a worry he might not even be ready for the start of the playoffs. (Assuming of course the Mariners qualify.) Instead, he should now be available for the final series of the regular season, versus Detroit.
Like Suarez, Rodriguez has provided excellent and consistent offense during his rookie season. He leads Seattle in batting average, stolen bases and runs, while being second in hits and home runs.
The 2022 All-Star has also provided excellent defense in center field. During his absence, the position has been more than ably manned by Jarred Kelenic.
Prior to Monday night’s slate of games, the Mariners find themselves in the third and final AL wild card spot. Their nearest challenger is Baltimore, who are four games back in the standings.
Do you maintain confidence the Mariners will make the playoffs come the conclusion of the regular season? Or are you concerned after their recent slump that the postseason drought will continue? Let us know in the comments section below.
