MESA, Ariz. — Nelson Cruz logged his first outfield time of the spring Thursday when he started in right field for the Seattle Mariners against the Oakland Athletics in Mesa. His previous four spring games came as the designated hitter.
“I’m confident that he can play the outfield,” manager Lloyd McClendon said, “but he needs to be out there.
“I’m trying to be as smart as I can be with this. Give him some time out there to keep him sharp but, at the same time, keep him healthy. He’ll be out there a few more times for sure.”
Cruz played primarily left field last season in Baltimore when not serving as the DH, but any time he gets in the Mariners’ outfield is likely to be in right.
“I think he’s probably more comfortable in right field,” McClendon said.
Simulated games
Right-hander Hisashi Iwakuma threw 60 pitches in four innings Thursday morning in a simulated game against a collection of minor-league players on one of the Mariners’ practice fields.
“I felt good overall today,” he said, “and had a better feel of my command, being able to locate where I wanted to. I was able to work from my stretch with runners on and that was good to get that feel back.
“I felt like my arm speed and arm action were better than my first outing, so I am satisfied with where I am at being the second game in camp.”
McClendon opted against having Iwakuma pitch against the A’s because the two teams play April 10-12 in Oakland.
The Mariners are taking the same approach Sunday with Felix Hernandez, who will pitch in a simulated game rather than face the Dodgers. The Mariners play April 13-15 in Los Angeles.
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