Cole Young’s Late Spring Surge: A Mariners’ Silver Lining
Just a week ago, Mariners fans had every reason to be concerned about Cole Young’s readiness for the season. His early at-bats were rough, and his swing decisions left much to be desired. For a player the organization has pinned its hopes on, this wasn’t the start anyone envisioned.
Then March arrived, and Young flipped the script.
After a challenging February, Young found his groove, belting three home runs and significantly reducing his strikeouts. With Opening Day looming, the Mariners need clarity in the infield, and Young’s timely performance shift couldn’t have come at a better moment.
This isn’t just a case of spring training hype. Young’s recent performance, including two pull-side homers in a single game on March 6, has him trailing only Brennen Davis in Cactus League home runs.
Mariners’ GM Jerry Dipoto even praised Young’s offseason efforts, noting, “Cole Young looks unbelievable right now.” Young himself credits his turnaround to the hard work he’s put in.
The timing of Young’s resurgence is crucial for Seattle. The Mariners needed this exhale, especially after Young’s turbulent debut season, which saw him lose his regular role by September and miss the postseason roster. His shaky start to camp this year didn’t help calm the waters.
While concerns remain-particularly his struggles with fastballs, where he’s still going 1-for-10-Young didn’t need to be perfect this spring. He just needed to show progress and remind the Mariners why they’ve been so optimistic about him. His improved defensive work is an added bonus.
This surge is especially important given that Colt Emerson, another potential infield option, isn’t projected to be ready for Opening Day, with a likely start in Triple-A. Young’s timely upswing provides the Mariners with much-needed hope and stability as the season approaches.