ARLINGTON -- A Mariners team that has struggled against left-handed starters can't afford to be without right-handed slugger Nelson Cruz for long, but the Mariners' designated hitter was forced to sit out Tuesday's game against the Rangers due to a nerve issue in his left hand that is affecting his grip.
Manager Scott Servais said Cruz hurt the hand on a checked swing in Sunday's loss at the White Sox. He stayed in that game and tried to play through it again on Monday, but went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in a loss to the Rangers.