6 years agoSeattle Mariners designated hitter Nelson Cruz became a late scratch from Tuesday's lineup with lower back tightness, per mlb.com. The move will slide outfielder Denard Span into the designated hitter role and Ben Gamel will play in the outfield. Cruz has been one of the hottest hitters in the game and the Mariners are hoping his absence is merely precautionary. At this point in the 37-year-old's career, these small injuries are par for the course and he may need a few days to let the back loosen up. Cruz was named American League Player of the Week on Monday after going 12-for-24 (.500) with one triple, two doubles, three home runs, eight runs driven in, an on-base percentage of .538 and a 1.042 slugging percentage during a six-game span. The Mariners and fantasy owners hope this injury will not derail quite a run of production for Cruz moving forward.--Joey C - RotoBaller
Source: Seattle Mariners