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Cruz a late scratch with lower back tightness

Related Topics: Death, Scratching, Human back, Nelson Cruz

BALTIMORE -- Nelson Cruz was a late scratch from the Mariners' starting lineup due to lower back tightness, the team said before Tuesday's game against the Orioles at Camden Yards.

Cruz was originally slated to bat fourth as the designated hitter. He is hitting .270 with 20 homers and 48 RBIs on the season.

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However, the lineup was changed during batting practice. Denard Span was originally listed as the left fielder, but he shifted over to DH.

Seattle won the opener of this four-game series with the Orioles on Monday night.