The Seattle Mariners have released corner infielder/designated hitter Matt Mangini, according to MLB.com's Greg Johns. The move was made to open a spot on the Mariners 40-man roster. Seattle placed right-handed pitcher Dan Cortes on the 15-day DL, and had to make room for starting pitcher Anthony Vasquez. In result, Matt Mangini was the odd man out.
The release is causing some discussion among Mariners fan, flustered as to why Mangini would be released. USS Mariner's Dave Cameron tweets "Mangini's release somewhat surprising, especially with Tuiasosopo still on the 40 man and not hitting at all in Tacoma." The corner infielder is hitting quite well, sporting a triple slash line of .336/.399/.409, albeit in the hitter friendly PCL league. The former first round talent had not been with Seattle's Triple-A affiliate recently due to an undisclosed personal issue, according to MLB.com's Greg Johns. Perhaps the personal issue may have been a reason for the release.