It's Never Too Late

Can I get an altogether now, "It's about time!" Finally, the Mariners' Cutting-Our-Losses Department is getting some sac. The latest evidence comes from the release of designated "hitter" Jose Vidro. A few of his teammates feigned dismay because he had picked it up since the All-Star break. But Vidro was still the league-worst stick at his position, compiling a .234 average, with 7 homers and 45 RBI. He was designated for assignment, which means the team has 10 days to trade or release him. It would be great if the M's could get something in return, but either way, this is addition by subtraction. Wladimir Balentien has been hitting the cover off the ball in Tacoma, and will take Vidro's place. The M's collective weight is now a little less dead.

The Mariners also sent Brandon Morrow down to Tacoma to start becoming a starter. This is a smart move too. Number one draft picks aren't groomed to be middle relievers, and with JJ Putz getting healthier, the closer role isn't his for the taking. The hope is that Morrow's anticipated transformation will help fans forget about the M's snub of local boy Tim Lincecum. So far so good: in his first start for the Rainiers, Morrow threw one and two-thirds scoreless innings before reaching his pitch count of 35.

Meanwhile, is Raul Ibanez fixin' for a post-trading-deadline deal? It looks as such, with his team-record 14 RBI in his last three games. Maybe it's not too late to deal him and/or Jarrod Washburn.

The Mariners' starting lineup Tuesday night featured 4 players who started the season at AAA. The 8-7 win over the Twins notwithstanding, the M's results will probably get uglier before they get prettier, but turning the roster over like this is the right thing to do. And it's never too late to do the right thing. Miguel Cairo, I'm looking in your direction.