Mariners Analysis

Wednesday, April 27, 2005

Time to give Ichiro a day off?

While Choo sits on the bench, many have wondered if he is doing any good sitting on the bench not playing. At least in AAA he gains experience, while on the 25 man roster only his bank account is happy. But we all know Hargrove doesn't use his bench.

Because Choo is an outfielder, one logical possibility is to give Winn a day off. You could even put Choo in Left for two days and give Winn a day at DH.

The problem with this approach is Ibanaz has been your best hitter of late. Traditionally slow starting Winn is also hitting the ball nicely- both got key hits yesterday and I'm sure Hargrove is reluctant to take them out of the lineup.

Meanwhile, we have that other guy in right field, Ichiro. He has been striking out a little more than usual lately, and has more 0-fers than normal. Do we want to see Ichiro play 162 games this year? No, all players need off days. They may not like it, but tough. It is a long season and I don't want any position player to only get a day off when they are injured.

It seems like the perfect time to give Ichiro a day off. Choo needs a taste of the big leagues, it is on the road so us Seattle fans won't mind as much.

Would you put Shin-soo Choo in Right for a day and let Ichiro get some rest?