Three Surprising Mariners Stats

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May 10, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners second baseman Robinson Cano (22, left) and right fielder Nelson Cruz (23) pose for a photo in the dugout before a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /

1. The Mariners are fourth in the American League in OPS.

This is surprising to me because the Mariners as a team have hit .244, good for eighth in the American League, yet they are fourth in walks, fourth in on-base percentage, and fourth in slugging. General manager Jerry Dipoto’s approach to building his offense around getting on base has paid off so far.

Unsurprisingly, left fielder Nori Aoki leads the team in walks with 15, but he’s followed closely by right fielder Seth Smith (14), designated hitter Nelson Cruz, (14), and catcher Chris Iannetta (13). In fact, the only Mariners who seem allergic to taking their base are first baseman Adam Lind (three walks), and Monday’s hero, shortstop Ketel Marte (four). The numbers are no doubt buoyed a bit by second baseman Robinson Cano’s hot start and recent clobbering of the ball, but a .730 team OPS is a sign that Dipoto, manager Scott Servais, and hitting coach/Mariner legend Edgar Martinez have put together an effective offense for a team that is supposed to win with its defense and pitching.

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