The Mariners have designated Willie Bloomquist for assignment, Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com reports on Twitter. The utilityman will seemingly be replaced on the active roster by Chris Taylor.
Bloomquist, 37, has slashed just .159/.194/.174 over his 72 plate appearances on the year. He was playing out the second season of a two-year, $5.8MM deal signed before the 2014 campaign. Never a significant offensive contributor, Bloomquist at least managed to hit at near his career levels last year (.643 OPS on the season; .658 career).
His value, instead, lies in his defensive versatility. This year alone, Bloomquist has played at first, second, short, third, and both corner outfield spots. But with his production at the plate dropping so precipitously, Seattle obviously felt it was time for a move.
Bloomquist never has been all that helpful with the bat, but his gutsy play and his glove have certainly been appreciated. He is an intelligent baseball guy, and a real gamer. I don’t know that he will catch on with anyone as a player again, but I hope he can make it as a coach or manager someday. I believe he might excel at that. Best of luck to you, Willie!
One of the best and longest lasting utility guys over the last decade.. My tip of the cap to him.. The Ty Wigginton of his time.. Without Wiggy’s power..