Mariners excited about red-hot Seager's future

BOSTON -- Kyle Seager has been the model of consistency for the Mariners over the past two years, but the third baseman put together the best month yet of his young career in July.

Seager hit .396 (38-for-96) with 21 runs, five doubles, six home runs and 14 RBIs in 25 games as he raised his season average to .298. The batting average was the best of any player in the Majors in July.

Acting Mariners manager Robby Thompson said Seager is coming into his own as a player at 25.

"He works very hard and is very efficient at what he does at third base and also out here in the cage and on the field in batting practice," Thompson said. "He's really become a pro at his approach before and during games. He's going to be a solid veteran here real soon.

"He's got two-plus years or whatever, but he's going to be one of those quiet leaders," said Thompson. "And at times when he does say something, people are going to listen. We already see that coming from Kyle. He's taken big steps and he's very consistent. You pretty much know what you're going to get day in and day out, month after month and probably year after year. He's one of those players."

Thompson has worked with Seager since his arrival in Seattle as the Mariners' infield coach, but appreciates what he's been doing at the plate as well in recent weeks.

"I've been working with him on his hitting, too," Thompson said with a laugh.