Breaking Down the Mariners Lineup Order

6. Mitch Haniger, RF

Here is where a baseball lineup gets tricky. Don’t let the six through nine guys fool you. They are just as important to keep the ball rolling and scoring runs as the top guys. The best teams in baseball don’t have “breaks” for the pitcher in their lineup. Haniger is no picnic. The sixth hitter usually has power but maybe not to the extent of the three, four and five guys. Haniger has power to spare. If he blossoms as we all hope he does, he can be a 20+ home run hitter. Spring Training is a perfect way to find out.

7. Dan Vogelbach, 1B

This is likely the most uncertain part of the M’s lineup. Vogelbach gets the first nod ahead of newly acquired Danny Valencia in the first game (although we will see plenty of Valencia). It’s likely it is because Servais believes the Padres will toss a right hander out there on Saturday, thus the advantage goes to the lefty Vogelbach.

He has strength. He reminds some of a combination of last year’s platoon first baseman Adam Lind and the Cubs’ loveable big guy, Kyle Schwarber. Vogelbach is nestled in this lineup among guys who should get on base to give him opportunities to show his stuff.

8. Mike Zunino, C

One of the biggest questions will be has Zunino progressed enough to play (but mostly hit) everyday? He showed signs last year, cutting down on strikeouts and walking more. The number eight hitter in the lineup will see just about anything from a pitcher, as he doesn’t usually merit respect from the guy on the mound. It will be good to see Zunino in that situation to see how he reacts to perhaps some tricky pitching sequences.

9. Leonys Martin, CF

I actually really like Martin in the nine spot.

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Sometimes the last slot in the order is reserved for the worst hitter. That may be true, but Martin is no slouch. He hit 15 home runs and stole 24 bases last season. He nearly doubled his previous career high in long balls. Think about where he is in the lineup, though. He is up to bat and Dyson is on deck. Imagine the nightmare the pitcher will face if both Martin and Dyson reach base for the meat of the Mariners order. I’m almost salivating just thinking about it. We could see double steals. Manufacturing more runs. Bunts. More runners in scoring position. The possibilities are endless if Martin hits similarly to last season. This lineup is built to terrorize the opponent with power and speed.

This will likely be the starting lineup come April 3rd.

Next: Will James Paxton Break Out?

We all hope that’s the case, as otherwise would suggest either injuries or sub-par performances. This lineup has the potential to be among the best in baseball. Give Jerry Dipoto and manager Scott Servais credit. On paper, this lineup could beat you in many different ways. These are not the 2015 Mariners anymore.