SEATTLE -- Nelson Cruz turned 38 on Sunday.
Earlier this week, 15-year Major Leaguer Jayson Werth retired -- giving up on a shot at a return via the Mariners' farm system -- at the age of 39.
Cruz has not faced the slowdown typical of a mid- to late-30s outfielder. He's been an All-Star in four of five seasons since turning 33, and is making a case again this year with a .276/.360/.568 slash line and 21 homers entering Sunday's game.
"Most guys start dipping a little bit when they get to the 35-year-old range," said manger Scott Servais.