PEORIA, Ariz. — The “official” stats of spring training say otherwise, but Shed Long recorded two stinging doubles against the Oakland A’s in the Cactus League opener Feb. 21.
The A’s attempted to play that day, when even the worst weather forecaster could’ve predicted the outcome: a canceled game after 1½ innings and discarded results. But even if the stats don’t show it, Long’s two plate appearances did happen against the A’s on that rainy, miserable day at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, Ariz. The Mariners coaching staff, which is important in Long’s progression toward reaching the big leagues, still remembers — two doubles, which led to a run and an RBI.