SEATTLE — The Seattle Mariners have recalled outfielder Mallex Smith after a couple of weeks with Triple-A Tacoma to work on his approach at the plate.
Seattle optioned infielder Shed Long back to Tacoma to make room for Smith ahead of Thursday’s series opener against Minnesota.
Smith was sent to the minors on April 30 after hitting just .165 in 27 games. Smith had just one hit in his final 29 at-bats before being sent down. In his 10 games with Tacoma, Smith hit .333 with three doubles and a home run.
The 26-year-old had a breakout season in 2018 for Tampa Bay, hitting .296 and tying for the American League lead with 10 triples. He also had two homers and stole 40 bases.
Long appeared in three games with the Mariners. He was hitless in nine at-bats and had a pair of walks in his limited opportunities.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.