While questions exist within the Mariners’ infield once you look past stalwarts Robinson Cano and Kyle Seager, the only real competition for a roster spot is the three-way battle to serve as the club’s utility infielder.
Switch-hitting Shawn O’Malley is the incumbent and, after proving himself last year to be a competent backup shortstop, appears rate an initial edge. But it’s thin.
Left-handed hitter Mike Freeman played well last year in limited action after a late-season promotion, and Taylor Motter, a right-handed hitter acquired from Tampa Bay, might be the most versatile member of the group.