Mariners set to use ‘seven-tool player’ Will Ferrell in spring game

The Mariners are already having fun with the plan to have comedian Will Ferrell play in Thursday's spring-training game, some players joking that they're fearful of losing their jobs.

BY SHANNON DRAYER

Mar 11, 2015, 1:58 PM Updated: 2:21 pm

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Funnyman Will Ferrell will appear for the Mariners in Thursday's spring-training game against Oakland as part of a comedy special that will air on HBO. (AP)

(AP)

PEORIA, Ariz. – The Mariners are getting ready to greet a new teammate. At some point in Thursday’s game against the A’s in Mesa, comedian Will Ferrell will step in to play second base for the Mariners as part of an effort to raise funds and awareness to fight cancer.

With Cactus League results so important, Mariners general manager Jack Zduriencik has done his homework on his newest player and thinks he should contribute right away. He believes Ferrell’s race-car driving experience in particular should be a plus.

“The intensity he brings to the table in ‘Talladega Nights’, Zduriencik noted, “The one view I had, when he ran up the race track, I think you saw quickness, you saw great agility, someone who really fears nobody. And, of course, the fierceness he shows behind the wheel of an automobile.”

There is a good chance Willie Bloomquist will get the start at second base against the A’s. Bloomquist is a huge fan of Ferrell, whom he got to meet when he played for the Royals and called “a first-class dude.” But for Bloomquist, baseball is all about competition and he’s not sure it will be a good idea to give up his spot to a newcomer.

“There’s been a number of people trying to take my job over the years as being a versatile guy and I know he is a versatile guy himself,” Bloomquist said. “Yeah, I’m looking over my shoulder a little bit.”

Dustin Ackley feels the same way.

“He’s one of those guys I feel like if he puts his mind to it he can probably do anything,” Ackley said. “I wouldn’t put it past him that he’s been working all offseason.”

Logan Morrison, for one, isn’t intimidated by the new addition at all.

“If his baseball skills are anything like his ice-skating skills, I think our jobs are safe,” Morrison said.

Still, if Ferrell accomplishes the feat he sets out to accomplish – play every position – he will do something that even Bloomquist hasn’t done.

“He’s Tommy-toppin’ me,” Bloomquist said. “Two things I haven’t done, pitching and catching in a game. He’s got his work cut out for him. I know from experience that’s not an easy day for him, but judging by the character he has, he will pull it off.”

Zduriencik insists that adding Ferrell will be nothing but a plus.

“He’s been highly touted. I’ve talked to many people who have been close to him. He’s dynamic, he’s a team leader, the chemistry he will bring to the team is phenomenal. We are all looking forward to getting to know him better,” Zduriencik said.

No general manager is going to turn down the opportunity to add free talent and the word from the advance scouts is that Ferrell very well could be a rare five-tool player.

“We think so,” Zduriencik said. “Some have said more. His mental state, his team chemistry he brings. Probably a seven-tool player.”

Zduriencik and the Mariners are very excited to see what their newest player brings to the field.