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5 Biggest Seattle Mariners X-Factors Heading into 2015 MLB Season

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Biggest Seattle Mariners X-Factors Heading into 2015 MLB Season

Seattle Mariners
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The Seattle Mariners were so very close to clinching a playoff spot in 2014. With the likes of Nelson Cruz and Robinson Cano on the roster, they are surely one team that could make some noise come October. While they do have these stars on the team, it's often the lesser-known X-factors that have the biggest impact. Here are the five biggest X-factors heading into the 2015 season.

5. Willie Bloomquist

Willie Bloomquist
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5. Willie Bloomquist

Willie Bloomquist
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While Willie Bloomquist may not be a full-time player for the Mariners this year, he has the ability to play every position on the field. That sort of versatility means a lot in the long run, especially in the dog days of August. He won't hit for power, but he will get on base, steal bases and score runs.

4. Taijuan Walker

Taijuan Walker
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4. Taijuan Walker

Taijuan Walker
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The Mariners have been searching for a No. 2 starter behind Felix Hernandez for quite some time. Taijuan Walker will have to be that guy this season for the Mariners to make the playoffs. Walker is oozing with potential, and if he could develop the way Seattle hopes he will, that will be a formidable one-two punch.

3. Mike Zunino

Mike Zunino
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3. Mike Zunino

Mike Zunino
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Mike Zunino didn't even hit .200 last year, but he belted 22 home runs and tallied 60 RBIs. Zunino has massive power and if he can somehow bat .250 instead of .199, he will be much more useful in the batter's box while also providing a steady force behind the plate.

2. Dustin Ackley

Dustin Ackley
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2. Dustin Ackley

Dustin Ackley
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Dustin Ackley is a consummate professional. He doesn't do anything great, but he doesn't do anything poorly either. Like Bloomquist, he can play any position on the field.

1. Kyle Seager

Kyle Seager
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1. Kyle Seager

Kyle Seager
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With the signing of Nelson Cruz, Kyle Seager may once again be overlooked in Seattle, and that is just not right. Seager may be the best player on his team, but he rarely gets the recognition. I think it's safe to say that the Mariners' success this season will go through him.

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