In the optimistic and warmer days of spring training when the discussions of controlling the zone, improving communication, changing culture and a different brand of baseball were prevalent, the plan seemed in place for the Seattle Mariners.
But the game can destroy the most disciplined preparations and thought-out philosophies.
Comments like “we’ll see how they react after a five-game losing streak because every team goes through at least one” were cautionary warnings.
Well, with an 8-0 loss to the Texas Rangers on Tuesday night at a frigid Safeco Field, that predicted five-game losing streak is now a reality, albeit sooner than expected.