Mariners feeling good

Former Rattler Felix Hernandez has the Mariners optimistic.

Slimmer Hernandez delights bosses
Pitcher shows up 20 pounds thinner than a year ago

SEATTLE -- The scuttlebutt circulating throughout the Mariners' offices this winter was that 20-year-old Felix Hernandez had adopted smarter eating habits and was working out on a daily basis in preparation for the upcoming season.

This, no doubt, delighted general manager Bill Bavasi and manager Mike Hargrove, who likely didn't have to think too hard to remember last year when Hernandez arrived at Spring Training about 16 pounds overweight.
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Hernandez, who won't turn 21 until April 8, arrived in Seattle weighing 226 pounds on his 6-foot-3 frame -- 20 pounds less than what he weighed at the start of Spring Training a year ago.

Trainer Rick Griffin -- who, like Bavasi, was stunned by Hernandez's transformation -- said the right-hander had a target weight of 230 in each of the past two seasons.

Last spring, Hernandez missed that goal badly, the result of poor eating habits and a not-so keen disposition on the importance of physical conditioning.

It showed.

If he wins 20 games this season, look for people in the Northwest to start asking about the Felix Diet.

Another good feeling type story from the Mariners is their newest addition to the Mariner Hall of Fame.

Martinez to enter Mariners' Hall
Former designated hitter played 18 seasons for Seattle

Edgar Martinez, arguably the greatest designated hitter in baseball history, will be inducted into the Seattle Mariners Hall of Fame during aa pregame ceremony on June 2 at Safeco Field.

Martinez joins former first baseman Alvin Davis, outfielder Jay Buhner and broadcaster Dave Niehaus as the only members of the team's Hall of Fame.

"It was a joy to watch Edgar grow as a baseball player and a man, and we are so proud that he did it all as a Seattle Mariner," Mariners team president Chuck Armstrong said. "Edgar is a friend, one of the greats in this great game and a true gentleman. His contributions to this organization cannot be overstated."

Martinez's induction coincides with the opening of the new Northwest Baseball Museum and Hall of Fame at Safeco Field.

Great. Another museum/hall of fame visit to add to my list.