PEORIA, Ariz. -- For guys like Robinson Cano and Nelson Cruz, the first game of Cactus League play is a blip on the radar, a chance to get a couple of innings, an at-bat or two, and begin the monthlong buildup to the regular season.
But for those fighting for jobs, like Seattle first baseman Mike Ford, this is the real deal. And it starts Friday when the Mariners face the Padres in a 12:10 p.m. PT game at Peoria Stadium.
"This is like the regular season is starting right now for the guys who are trying to crack the team," said Ford, a Rule 5 Draft pickup from the Yankees.