The Seattle Mariners experienced a tough start to their Cactus League season, losing 5-2 to the San Diego Padres. Despite the presence of several regulars, including J.P. Crawford and Julio Rodríguez, the Mariners were only able to record two hits throughout the game. Jhonathan Diaz struggled on the mound, giving up three runs in the first inning, largely due to a two-run homer by Manny Machado. The Mariners managed to breathe some life into the game in the ninth inning with a home run from Samad Taylor, a promising sign as they prepare for their next matchup against the Los Angeles Angels.

The Seattle Mariners have made an intriguing move by signing free agent slugger Rowdy Tellez to a minor league contract, providing him the chance to prove his worth amidst a power-challenged roster. Tellez, who has amassed 105 home runs over seven seasons, including a career-high 35 with Milwaukee in 2022, arrives as a potential catalyst for a Mariners team that has opted for conservative additions this offseason.

With the absence of a clear designated hitter, Tellez could fill that gap and offer significant offensive contributions. The Mariners are counting on young stars like Julio Rodriguez and Cal Raleigh to lead the charge, but Tellez's experience adds depth. His signing, while low-risk, could prove pivotal if the Mariners wish to extend their competitive edge in a tight AL West.

Spring training in Peoria, Arizona, has seen a parade of former Seattle Mariners making their presence known. Icons such as Ichiro Suzuki, Alvin Davis, and Jay Buhner, along with Hall of Famer Edgar Martinez, are lending their expertise. Among them is Franklin Gutierrez, a former Gold Glove outfielder, now a special assignment coach since 2021. Gutierrez, who compiled a .257 career batting average with a high of 18 home runs in 2009, was spotted interacting with current players after workouts. The Mariners are preparing for their Cactus League opener against the San Diego Padres, with left-hander Jhonathan Diaz set to take the mound.

After a long offseason, the Seattle Mariners return to action in the Cactus League, kicking off their spring training against the San Diego Padres. The Mariners will feature left-hander Jhonathan Diaz, who is vying for a spot in the rotation after a solid Triple-A season. Other key players like Julio Rodriguez and JP Crawford will also take the field, indicating the team's intent to build on last year's near-playoff run. With Donovan Solano delayed due to visa issues and Jorge Polanco recovering from knee surgery, the roster remains competitive as players vie for limited spots.

The Mariners finished last season with an 85-77 record, just missing out on the playoffs. The Padres, conversely, had a strong performance and made it to the postseason, highlighting the competitive landscape ahead. Vancouver fans will be keen to see whether Diaz can solidify his position and how the rest of the roster performs in the run-up to the season.

Spring training kicks off today with the Seattle Mariners facing the San Diego Padres at 12:10 p.m. MT in Peoria, Arizona. Mariners manager Dan Wilson confirmed that left-handed reliever Jhonathan Diaz will start the game, amidst a rotation strategy that allows core starters to ease into their rhythm over the early games. Diaz, who has had a tumultuous path in recent seasons, will look to establish himself in what appears to be a competitive bullpen. Last season, Diaz posted a 4.66 ERA with eight strikeouts over 9.2 innings.

With the team focusing on short outings for starters, several relief pitchers will have opportunities to prove themselves during camp. The Mariners are optimistic about their roster depth and the potential of emerging pitchers being integrated into the major league team. Moreover, there are notable future developments, including the mentorship role of Edgar Martinez for rising star Julio Rodriguez, which could bode well for the Mariners' offensive prospects.