The Mariners reupped Mike Sweeney to a minor league deal and invited him to spring training today. Mike Sweeney is primarily a right-handed designated hitter option that played 5 games at firstbase last season which makes it harder for the Mariners to find a big league spot for him since the are stacked at these spots (As mentioned in my previous blog).
However, the great thing about Sweeney, is that he's well aware of the situation and the odds against him, but wants more than anything to play for this team. So much so, that he's going to try playing some outfield to increase his versatility. So much so, that he's been working out non-stop since last season with a return to the Mariners being his ultimate goal. So much so, that he turned down other offers on big league clubs just for a chance to tryout for Seattle.
At this point, I don't care if Mike Sweeney hits .202 or .292. The attitude he brings to the clubhouse and the leadership is unmeasurable and a giant reason that this club was able to play such great ball last year. Its what can make the difference on a team that doesn't have a lot of allstars or overpowering offensive threats. Never give up, all for the team.
The other reason I'd like to see Sweeney around, is that he's the kind of guy you want coaching for the organization down the road. He's already been contacted about such a possibility, but shot it down because of his desire to be a player on this team. Maybe someday though, he'll be a hitting coach or something.
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