Mike Moustakas came up last week. Anthony Rizzo came up last week. All eyes then turned to Seattle, where the Mariners organization had top prospect Dustin Ackley ready and waiting in triple-A. It was only a matter of time before Ackley got the call, and sure enough, on Wednesday night, word's out that Ackley is being promoted to the Majors.
Dustin Ackley Promoted By Seattle Mariners; Luis Rodriguez Optioned
With Tacoma, the 23-year-old Ackley posted a batting line of .303/.419/.487, with 55 walks, 38 strikeouts, and nine home runs. The second baseman is still considered a little rough around the edges in the field, but he’s gotten much better in that regard, and at the plate, he’s as polished as a young hitter comes. Ackley’s exceptional command of the strike zone should allow him to make a fairly smooth transition to the highest level.
The expectation is that Ackley will play most of the time at second, with Adam Kennedy taking a few starts away from the struggling Chone Figgins at third base. Kennedy has been one of the Mariners' better hitters, while Figgins has been a nightmare. Kennedy was seen taking grounders at third before Wednesday's game.
To make room for Ackley on the roster, the Mariners optioned infielder Luis Rodriguez to triple-A. Rodriguez had himself a handful of clutch at bats, but no longer had a role.
See More:
