Nelson Cruz is in the starting lineup for today’s game against the Los Angeles Angels.
“Finally,” he said. “It’s about time.”
Cruz had been bothered by a sore knee in the early days of spring training, but felt fine the last few days. However, the Mariners’ medical staff wanted to be extra cautious with Cruz. They didn’t want to have anything nagging as they headed into the season. Cruz will get two at-bats and be done for the day.
While Cruz is a known quantity, Lee is a still curiosity. The big first baseman has missed the past few days while attaining his work visa for this year so he has yet to play in a game.