SEATTLE — First baseman Logan Morrison went into Monday night’s game against the Boston Red Sox with just two home runs and five RBIs during an injury-plagued season. In a span of five plate appearances, he doubled his season home-run total and added four RBIs.
It was a breakout performance for the oft-injured Morrison, who may be playing his way into a long-term role with Seattle.
With designated-hitter Corey Hart and first baseman Justin Smoak on the disabled list, Morrison is getting extended playing time and making the most of it. Staying healthy has been his biggest obstacle this season, and Morrison seems to be making the most of his opportunity as an every-day first baseman.
“I felt like I’ve been swinging the bat better,” he said after Monday’s 12-3 win over Boston. “Tonight they didn’t go to the warning track like they had been. It was fun, man.”
Morrison’s time at first base could be limited, as Smoak expects to return to the lineup by the end of the week. But there should be plenty of chances to DH until Hart returns.
Morrison has struggled with injuries for most of the season, missing 53 games with hamstring problems. He nearly landed on the DL again two weeks ago, when a dugout incident involving a shattered bat forced Morrison to undergo five stitches. He was back in the lineup the following day and has since gone 9-for-28 with three home runs and seven RBIs.
“Logan’s been swinging the bat pretty darn good,” manager Lloyd McClendon said.