The Seattle Mariners‘ outfield rotation is about to get even more complicated.
Kyle Lewis, the AL Rookie of the Year in 2020, is getting closer to being ready to return to the big league team.
He is, according to the team’s official Twitter account, starting a minor league rehab assignment on Tuesday.
“One step closer. @KLew_5 will begin his rehab assignment tonight with @RainiersLand,” they tweeted.
One step closer. @KLew_5 will begin his rehab assignment tonight with @RainiersLand. pic.twitter.com/piNOCgr2LT
— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) May 3, 2022
It’s excellent news for a player who was affected by knee issues for most of last season.
In fact, Lewis was limited to 36 games in 2021, in which he hit .246/.333/.392.
When he comes back, the Mariners will have to accommodate Jarred Kelenic, Mitch Haniger, Julio Rodriguez, Lewis, and Jesse Winker between the outfield and the designated hitter spot.
Evidently, one of them will be going to the bench every night.
He Is Close To Making His Long-Awaited Return
First, the Mariners should see Lewis healthy and producing in live action before counting on him.
He had been playing in instructional league games in Arizona, and had progressed to games on consecutive nights.
He hasn’t played since June, when he underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee.
Finally, Lewis, who was one of the most impressive Mariners’ prospects before breaking out in 2020, appears to be on the verge of contributing again.
He did it in that 2020 season, in which he slugged 11 home runs and slashed .262/.364/.437 in 58 games.
His return, when it actually occurs, will increase the internal competition for plate appearances in the Mariners’ everyday lineup.
He remains a dynamic talent who is still young, at 26 years old, to make his presence felt as the Mariners aim for a postseason spot.
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