Jamal Strong

Despite a parade of call-ups last season, the Mariners never tabbed Strong to come to the bigs. He has good speed and is patient at the plate, but with prospect Jeremy Reed likely making the team this year, there isn't much room left for Strong. He could make the team, though, if the Mariners decided to fill their last bench spot with a fourth outfielder rather than an infielder.

Strong has a good shot of making the Seattle club this season. The Mariners need a outfield backup and can always use another pinch runner for Edgar Martinez. Strong has 214 stolen bases in 390 minor-league games, including 26 steals in 56 games last season. Major league pitchers figure to solve him quickly, though, as he can't handle inside heat. Still, he hit .305 in 210 at bats for Triple-A Tacoma. He was expected to miss 2003 with a separated shoulder, but returned in early July. Strong likely will compete with Chris Snelling for the backup outfield job with the Mariners.

Strong was the minor league player of the year in 2001, but struggled at Double-A San Antonio in 2002. He could be promoted to Triple-A for the 2003 season, but he is at least a year or two away from the majors even if he rebounds.