3/20: Open game thread

Today's game seems a bit less compelling than yesterday's. It's not on TV and only three or four of the Mariners everyday players have been slotted into the starting lineup. Roenis Elias gets the start this afternoon. He's still looking to put together his first dominant appearance of the spring. His last two outings have been a little shaky (10 hits, 1 BB, 3 SO, and 4 ER in 5.2 IP), so it's important that he gets comfortable early. Elias certainly hasn't looked bad this spring, but Walker looked pretty darn good again yesterday... Roenis probably can't afford too many more iffy outings unless he doesn't mind falling (further) behind in the competition for the final position in the M's rotation.

Offensively, there's not toooo much to look for here. Mike Zunino and Justin Ruggiano each start today, after days off yesterday. Also, Nelson Cruz gets his fourth start of the spring in right field, so maybe we'll get to see hear about some dingers/defensive misadventures. Please don't hurt yourself out there.

Additionally, the Mariners made another round of roster moves this morning:

None of these decisions are particularly surprising. With the demotions of Lucas Luetge and Rafael Perez, the battle for the second lefty spot in the bullpen becomes a little less cloudy, but it has seemed like that spot was probably going to go to either David Rollins or Tyler Olson for the last week or so. Joe Saunders is still hanging around with the big-league club, too, but he's been pretty miserable thus far in Spring Training.

Game info:

• Seattle Mariners @ Texas Rangers, 1:05 PM PST
  
• TV: None
  
• Radio: 710 ESPN, mlb.com

Starting lineups: