Brady's Spin: Leo Rivas is a Nice Addition to Seattle Mariners, and I'm a Big Fan
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Look, absolutely nobody is happy to see Seattle Mariners infielder Ryan Bliss go down with a torn bicep that will likely cost him the entire season. It's a terrible break for a nice guy who's worked hard to give himself a chance to earn a starting job.
That said, I'm a big fan of Leo Rivas, who was recalled in his place, and I think he gives this team a little something.... extra.
Rivas just does the little things well, and guys like that are so useful to your ballclub. Truth be told, I was in favor of Rivas earning the starting job in spring training had he not gone down with an ankle injury for about a week.
He runs well, plays good defense, is a switch-hitter and is difficult to pitch to. In his first start of the year on Friday, he went 0-for-1 but drew two walks and stole a base. He also played excellent defense at second base, turning a key double play in the sixth inning.
Sure, he doesn't have the ceiling of top prospect Cole Young, but he's a solid fill-in and I think he'll help this team tread water even in the wake of these injury issues. I don't know if he'll become the regular starter at second base, but I'd like to see him given the chance to be, especially if the team isn't going to go out and make additional moves.
The Mariners will take on the Rangers again on Saturday night with first pitch coming at 6:40 p.m. PT. Bryan Woo pitches against Kumar Rocker.
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