Seattle Sports Year in Review: Top 10 Highlights of 2015

Sep 10, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners designated hitter Nelson Cruz (23) points to the crowd after hitting a two-run home run against the Texas Rangers during the seventh inning at Safeco Field. Seattle defeated Texas, 5-0. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

2) Nelson Cruz hits 40 home runs

There’s no denying the Mariners failed to reach expectations in 2015, but the same can’t be said for Nelson Cruz on an individual basis. In fact, he probably exceeded what was expected of him, especially with having to play half of his games at Safeco Field.

The 35-year old supplied numerous highlights during last season. This included becoming just the fourth player in franchise history to hit 40 home runs:

Joining an illustrious group which includes Ken Griffey Jr, Jay Buhner and Alex Rodriguez is certainly an impressive accomplishment. Cruz also became the seventh player in MLB history to hit 40+ home runs in consecutive seasons for two different teams, having done it for the Baltimore Orioles the previous year.

By the end of the season, the four-time All-Star had hit a career-high 44 homers, as well as 93 RBIs. Mariners fans will be hoping to see more of the same in 2016, as the team attempts to return to the postseason for the first time since 2001.

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