Notes: Second base belongs to Lopez

[Porter]

PEORIA, Ariz. -- Jose Lopez was not the Mariners' official starting second baseman when Spring Training began. That's what manager Mike Hargrove said, anyway.

Lopez, the 22-year-old converted shortstop who had exceeded the team's expectations at each level on a rapid climb through the Minor Leagues, seemed to be the favorite for the gig.

But Hargrove said right away that nothing would be given to Lopez and that he would have to fight for the job, competing against Willie Bloomquist and non-roster invitee Fernando Vina.

It never turned out to be much of a battle.

Vina, hurt for most of the spring, was released on Friday morning. Bloomquist, deemed too valuable to start at any one position, will resume his super-utility role.

As originally suspected, the job now belongs to Lopez, and Hargrove seems quite satisfied with that.

Lopez was asked to improve in two main areas this spring -- defense and hitting to right field -- and has succeeded on both counts, according to the skipper.

Through Sunday, Lopez was batting .349 for the spring, and on Saturday, he hit the ball to right field three times -- twice for singles and once for an RBI sacrifice fly.

"I saw him compete well and play well," said Hargrove. "He's worked real hard at his defense, and it shows. His setup, his jumps, his first step ... he's a better player now than when we last saw him in Seattle.

"All parts of his game have advanced."

This isnt much of a surprise for anyone that he is starting. Maybe Vina was brought on to push Lopez. but now will Betacourt get the nod at SS.

[DirtyKash]

Nice. I love how JoLo hits the ball to the opposite field, I'm a big fan of those. Hoping he does well, that he'll make you forget Bret Boone. I'll have to keep an eye out for him.

[Porter]

Hes been on the radar for about 2-3 years for now. Hes also still very young as well. Im hoping he becomes good as advertised soon. Him and Beta will be a good double play combo in the future.

[Providence A's]

hopefully, he'll do well and give you guys some stability at 2B for years to come.

[Porter]

I wont have to hope for a Steroid induced 2B like Boone?