The competition to become Adam Lind's platoon partner at first base is down to two.
The Mariners have released first baseman Gaby Sanchez, per a statement Monday night from general manager Jerry Dipoto.
With Sanchez gone, the backup to the left-handed hitting Lind will be either right-handed hitting Dae-Ho Lee or Jesus Montero. Both are off to relatively quiet starts this spring. Montero entered Sunday 5-for-22 (.227 batting average) with one double and two RBIs in 11 games. Lee has performed a bit better, starting 4-for-15 (.267 batting average) with one mammoth homer and three RBIs.
Montero, a former top prospect, has no minor league options on his contract.