The Seattle Mariners have made a significant move by placing former All-Star first baseman Ty France on outright waivers, as reported by multiple sources. If France clears waivers, the Mariners will have the option to send him to the minors, although he has the right to refuse the assignment due to his service time.
This decision comes at a time when the Mariners are experiencing a decline in the AL West standings and France is going through a career-worst slump. The 30-year-old is currently batting .224 with eight home runs and 31 RBI in 87 games this season, a stark contrast to his All-Star performance in 2022 when he hit .274 with 20 home runs and 83 RBI.
In his place, rookie Tyler Locklear will take over at first base. Locklear, a former second-round pick, has shown promise with two home runs, three RBI, and a stolen base in 11 MLB games this season.
The Mariners are hoping to shake up their stagnant offense, as they currently have the lowest batting average in the league and rank 28th in runs scored. Despite a strong start to the season, they have struggled recently, allowing the Houston Astros to catch up in the race for the AL West crown.
After a series of losses to the Astros, the Mariners managed to win a crucial game to tie for the division lead. France, who started the game on the bench, was brought in to pinch hit after Julio RodrÃguez suffered a sprained ankle. Fortunately, X-rays on RodrÃguez’s ankle came back negative.
Overall, the Mariners’ decision to waive France is a bold move aimed at revitalizing their struggling offense and staying competitive in the division race.