Branyan Bombs His Batting Blues

What a year for Russell Branyan. The Seattle Mariners, known for their off-season experimentation, agreed to a one-year contract with the former Brewer. So far this season, the first baseman has exceeded expectations in the Emerald city, leading the franchise in several offensive categories.

Branyan has experienced his share of releases, along with numerous reassignments. Many teams didn't allow Branyan optimum playing time. It is apparent now what Branyan can achieve when he is granted a developing frame.The left-hander marked his MLB debut on September 26, 1998 in the Cleveland Indian organization. As a top prospect throughout his minor league career, he suffered much disappointment in his early professional performance. He held undeniable power, but struggled for a contact average. Branyan developed an infamous nickname, referred to as "3TO". The term stands for "three true outcomes": a walk, strikeout, or homerun. The Indians traded Branyan to Cincinnati, where he would finish the 2002, as well as 2003 season with less than approving numbers. In 2004, Branyan proceeded his plateu with the Milwaukee Brewers. The "spurty" player would endure a battling journey, jumping from minor to major appearances with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, San Diego Padres, returning back to Cleveland, then further transferring to the Philadelphia Phillies and St. Louis Cardinals by 2007. The shifting "3TO" found his way back to Milwaukee in 2008, pursuing any possible chances to renovate his playing career.

On December 3, 2008, Branyan signed a one-year contract with the Seattle Mariners baseball franchise. Most would expect a less than reputable display, approaching his age of 33, ten years following his professional debut. Here in the Emerald, Branyan has accomplished considerable strides in reviving his productivity. Providing a solid, starting first-baseman role for the Mariners, Branyan is well on his way towards setting a mark in his career.

Branyan entered Yankee stadium for their third and final game of the Mariner's away series, with a devastating strikeout streak of four plate appearances. His first three at bats extended the depressing feat to seven consecutive strikeouts. The Mariners themselves, held a nagging 10 game losing streak in the Bronx. The "3TO" machine stepped up to the plate in the top of the final inning, the Mariners holding a two-run lead over New York, 6-4. It was a perfect moment for Branyan to redeem his hitting potential, delivering a two-run homerun which stretched the Mariner lead to a comfortable 4 runs. Branyan's blow struck the restaurant, deep in dead-center. The first of such blasts in the new Yankee stadium had reached an estimated 451 feet. With one swing, Branyan proved his trademark capability, secured the Mariner's win, and recorded a phenomenal stroke in the latest, pinstripe factory.

Branyan is hitting just under .300 for this season, has over 40 RBI's, and recorded his 20th "dinger" Thursday night- approaching the all-star break. If the former transfer can maintain his old-man strength, he will certainly accomplish a personal season to remember. Remaining above the .500 mark, the Mariners may have inherited a vital spark with the surprising veteran. These days, the once labeled "3TO" is looking more like 'Mr. Mojo Risin'.