Nelson Cruz returns to Mariners’ lineup for series finale vs Nationals

Nelson Cruz returns to the Mariners’ lineup for their series finale with the Nationals this morning.

Cruz has been dealing with a sore hamstring and was held out of Wednesday’s 5-1 loss, in part because the team is playing in a National League park. He will play in the right field rather than his usual designated hitter role, pushing Ben Gamel to the bench.

Cruz’s big bat is needed as the Mariners have scored just one run in each of the team’s last five games – all losses.

Pregame coverage is underway on 710 ESPN Seattle with first pitch scheduled for 9:05 a.m.

Mariners (20-27)

Jean Segura, SS
Guillermo Heredia, CF
Robinson Cano, 2B
Nelson Cruz, RF
Kyle Seager, 3B
Danny Valencia, 1B
Taylor Motter, LF
Mike Zunino, C

Ariel Miranda, RHP

Nationals (28-17)

Trea Turner, SS
Jayson Werth, LF
Bryce Harper, RF
Ryan Zimmerman, 1B
Daniel Murphy, 2B
Anthony Rendon, 3B
Michael Taylor, CF
Jose Lobaton, C

Gio Gonzalez, LHP

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