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Geoff Baker covers the Mariners for The Seattle Times. He provides daily coverage of the team throughout spring training, and during the season.

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September 13, 2008 9:49 PM

Lopez: "I don't want to move positions"

Posted by Larry Stone

Jose Lopez had declined to talk about his first-base switch before the game, saying he preferred to wait until afterward.

And afterward, he said he's happy to play first base for now to help out the team, but said he wants no part of a long-term career move.

"I don't want to play first base,'' he said. "I have no problem helping the team right now, but I don't want to move positions.''

I don't blame Lopez for being reluctant to move away from a position he's worked hard to try to master. If the Mariners ever get serious about a switch, they can try to compel him to move, but right now this just seems to be something they're kicking around. No need to make a big issue out of it.

On the other hand....they need to explore all options, including perhaps Lopez at third if they trade Adrian Beltre. If I were a betting man, however, I'd say the Mariners' opening day second baseman next year will be...Jose Lopez.

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