It is the type of play the Mariners’ new, more-athletic outfield is supposed to make.
It occurred with two outs in the sixth inning Tuesday night when Houston had the bases loaded with the Mariners clinging to a one-run lead. Evan Gattis sliced a soft looper into right field.
A year ago, the Mariners don’t have a right fielder who can reached that ball. Not even close. Mitch Haniger sprinted in and reached the ball as he went into a slide. It kicked off his glove. (VIDEO LINK)
Three runs scored.
The Astros added another run before the inning ended and went on to a 7-5 victory over the Mariners at Safeco Field.