Seattle Mariners Will Make the Playoffs: Five Reasons
By Todd Pheifer
Aug 16, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Seattle Mariners second baseman Robinson Cano (22) celebrates with Kyle Seager (15) after scoring in the ninth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Detroit won 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
The Cano effect
The Seattle Mariners paid a lot of money for Robinson Cano, and so far he has been worth it. His slash line of .329/.397/.469 has been a big reason that this offense has been relatively effective throughout the year.
Sure, the Mariners are still 21st in team batting average and 27th in on-base percentage, but that is a big improvement over teams of recent years. Credit Cano with providing a steady presence in the lineup.
Ultimately, that may his biggest contribution. Cano is a bonafied star, the first real threat that Seattle has had in the lineup for years. The addition of Cano and the continued growth of Kyle Seager have provided just enough runs to take advantage of great pitching performances.