Mariners lose Jackson to back spasms
Jewett hoping center fielder can avoid long-term injury
SEATTLE -- Mariners center fielder Austin Jackson was pulled from Seattle's 5-4 loss to the Tigers on Wednesday prior to his fourth-inning at-bat with what the club announced as back spasms.
"I think it's just spasms. Hopefully it's not anything long term," said Mariners bench coach and acting manager Trent Jewett.
The 28-year-old struck out looking in his first two at-bats before being removed for pinch-hitter Logan Morrison. Morrison remained in the game at first base, while first baseman Mark Trumbo moved to right field, right fielder Seth Smith moved to left and left fielder Dustin Ackley moved to center.
"The [second] strikeout looking was more in regard to the way his back felt as opposed to his approach at the plate," Jewett said.
Jewett said Jackson first felt his back tighten up on defense but felt better after stretching. Jackson's back tightened up again when he returned to the outfield and stood around in the innings leading up to his exit.
Video: DET@SEA: Jackson launches a grand slam to left
Jackson is 2-for-10 during the Mariners' current homestand and hit his first career grand slam on Tuesday night. He has hit safely in 25 of his last 36 games and is hitting .268 (37-for-138) during that span.