Seattle Sportsnet

With Adrian Beltre’s contract set to expire at the end of the 2009 season, the Mariners will need to address their soon-to-be-vacant hot corner by committing to a third baseman for next year and beyond. Who can we expect to man the position in the near future? We’ve compiled a list of names of possible options, organized by each player’s current affiliation with the team.

Active Roster

Russell Branyan. Currently the M’s starting first baseman, Branyan originally began his career as a third baseman with Cleveland, and has played the position off and on for the past ten years.

Though he has showcased remarkable offensive numbers at first base, the organization has a number of first base prospects in the minor leagues, some of whom (Mike Carp, Bryan LaHair) are ready for the big leagues right now.

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Felix Hernandez and catcher Jamie Burke embrace following the final out of Tuesday's game. (AP)

A complete game, two-hit shutout against the weak-hitting San Diego Padres had to get him thinking. And it just as easily had the rest of us questioning his future, as well.

What would it be like if Felix Hernandez pitched in the National League? Last night may very well have been a preview of that distinct possibility.

In nine innings of work against the Pads, Felix allowed two singles — one to Tony Gwynn, Jr., another to Kevin Kouzmanoff — struck out six, walked four, and threw an ace-like 117 pitches. He dominated from start to finish and not only displayed his full range of ability, but also the stark contrast in talent between the hitter-friendly American League and the pitcher-friendly National League.

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