Mariner Matters | 3.31

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51 + 24 = 1 fun summer!

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A playful Griffey and a reserved Ichrio seem to have a very mutual respect for each other as people and as baseball players. Early in his career in Japan, Ichiro idolized Griffey. And Junior? Well, he's got Ichiro's back when it comes to reporters :-)

In any case, it should prove to be an interesting mix...
the mystique of Ichiro's disciplined routine and the aura of Junior's superstar presence combined with their vast and varied experience and unparalleled talent should make for some unique chemistry in the clubhouse.






Yo! (says Adrian) Marniners could surprise this season...

"A lot of people might not expect much from us, especially after what happened last year," Beltre said, "but if we do the little things, get guys on the right track, stay healthy and we play as a team, we can do things people don't expect us to do."

When the Mariners begin the regular season against the Twins on April 6, there will be a new first baseman, a new left fielder, a new center fielder, an almost all-new bullpen, a new designated hitter and definitely a new attitude.

"I take my job seriously," Beltre said, "but I like to have fun. When you have fun, it makes your game better. You don't put as much stress on yourself. We have had fun this spring, and at the same time, we have worked hard."

Photo courtesy Larry LaRue

Does Roy need a routine?
Pitching coach Rick Adair thinks so...

"It's what time you get up, what time you come to the ballpark, knowing exactly what you're going to do and knowing that it's going to prepare you for the outing," Adair said. "Whatever the results are, you can handle that. Then come back the next day and do the same things over again because you're doing things the right way."

"It's something that's imperative not only for Roy, but for everybody else. There's nothing wrong with having adrenaline, but how do you use it?"