Mariners Try To Shake Sluggish Offense, Name Edgar Martinez New Hitting Coach

In an effort to jump start what has been a disappointing offensive output thus far this season, the Seattle Mariners announced today that hitting coach Howard Johnson will be reassigned in the club's system and Hall of Fame member Edgar Martinez will take over the duty at the big league level.

In an official statement from General Manager Jack Zduriencik released by the team:

"Watching the club, it had become apparent to me that we had reached the point that a change was necessary. I appreciate Howard Johnson's professionalism and work ethic, but we simply were not getting the results that we expect and require.
I have had the opportunity to observe Edgar over the past several years at Spring Training and working with our young hitters in the Minor Leagues. He is passionate and knowledgeable about hitting and understands the work that needs to be done to be successful as a big league hitter. His resume, desire to contribute at this time and ability to convey complex information about hitting is what drew us to this decision."