TEMPE, Ariz. — With a maturing approach at the plate that has resulted in line drives being sprayed around Cactus League parks, Stefen Romero has forced his way into the conversation and competition for the Mariners’ right-handed-hitting backup/platoon spot at first base.
The competition had seemed to narrow into a two-person race between Dae-Ho Lee and Jesus Montero. Now Romero is in contention for one of the few openings on the Mariners’ projected 25-man roster.
“He’s swung the bat really well, and he’s certainly in the mix for that spot,” manager Scott Servais said before Tuesday’s game against the Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium.