In the center of the Seattle Mariners' spring-training clubhouse is a luxurious new pool table. Not only does it provide a source of relaxation and friendly competition for players, it adds a certain feng shui to the space.
There was no pool table when the Mariners opened camp in February. How it got there provides some insight into the new manager who, like the ancient Chinese practice, is trying to bring some positive energy to a franchise that has had two winning seasons in 12 years and earned the label of one of baseball's biggest underachievers.