7/12: Open Game Thread

Well, I guess we were a bit presumptive with the idea that Dustin Ackley could be used in a Ben Zobrist type role. With Nick Franklin hurting, this is two days in a row that one of the Mariners young lefty bats have sat. Brendan Ryan is in the lineup against a right-handed pitcher again. Yesterday, it was Ackley who was off (until replacing an injured Endy Chavez). Today, it's Michael Saunders on the pine. If ever there were a time to use that versatility, we're seeing it being passed on.

In the grand scheme of things, it doesn't matter all that much. Ackley could have easily slid back to second base for a few days, especially since Brad Miller has handled short just fine. It would appear we should embrace the fact that Dustin Ackley is solely an outfielder now and perhaps isn't thought by the skipper to be an every-day player at this moment in time.

I'd be remiss not to warn you all that Hector Noesi is back. So, should Joe Saunders struggle, get ready for your favorite Friday night drinking game. It doesn't have a name, nor does it need to be described. You can figure this one out, guys.

I'm headed to Lake Roosevelt for a little houseboat adventure next week. Being in Northeastern Washington, I may -- for the first time in my life -- see a moose. They're known to straggle south of the Canadian border and be spotted in the area. I've been a Mariners fan since before I knew chicks were cool, and I may finally see their mascot.

So, your Friday pre-game question: How many sports team mascots have you seen in the wild? Badgers, wolverines and falcons, oh my!

Lineups

1. Brad Miller (L) 2B
2. Michael Saunders (L) RF
3. Raul Ibanez (L) LF
4. Kendrys Morales (S) DH
5. Kyle Seager (L) 3B
6. Justin Smoak (S) 1B
7. Mike Zunino (R) C
8. Dustin Ackley (L) CF
9. Brendan Ryan (R) SS