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8/25/18: Open Game Thread

It’s a throwback lineup that hopefully won’t lead to a thrown-out back.

By John Trupin
Arizona Diamondbacks v Seattle Mariners
Last time Nelson Cruz started in right field against the Diamondbacks... it didn’t go so well.
Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images

Believe it or not, there was once a time where Nelson Cruz was considered a five-tool talent. After 2009, where Cruz hit .260/.332/.524 and swiped 20/24 bases, Baseball Prospectus noted the oft-nicked up Nellie “showed all five tools: an ability to hit for average and superlative power, a solid glove, a rocket arm, and surprising speed.” Two of those tools rapidly receded, as Nelson’s speed and defensive skills have receded into the earth. Mercifully for his long-fragile hamstrings and aging back, it is rarely the case that Cruz is asked to do much of anything beyond Boom. Today, with Scott Servais seeking to keep Cruz’s Stick from gathering rust in an extended stretch of NL ballparks, he’ll receive the start against Diamondbacks LHP Robbie Ray. The Mariners will match him with Wade LeBlanc, one of their three surprisingly capable offensive hitting pitchers.

Far more importantly, Robinson Canó will be rocking these bad boys tonight:

Instagram

The lineups themselves are here:

Game Time: 5:10 PM PT

TV: ROOT

Radio: Back home at 710 AM

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