Morse limited by quad injury, to ease back into action

SEATTLE -- The Mariners have been without slugger Michael Morse since the outfielder strained his right quad against San Diego on May 28. Morse has been a bright spot offensively for the Mariners, tied for the team lead with 11 home runs.

The Mariners may not miss Morse's power much longer, as manager Eric Wedge hinted before Tuesday's game that he would consider using the outfielder as a pinch-hitter, if necessary, providing he looked good in pregame warmups.

Morse didn't end up factoring into Seattle's game plan on Monday, and Wedge reiterated that he would be cautious with him.

"That's the big part, and making sure that we don't put him in harm's way," Wedge said. "Also, when we do put him back out there, he's going to be somewhat restricted with his running. We have to make sure he understands what that line is so he doesn't injure himself further."

Morse took both early and regular batting practice on Tuesday, but said that's never been the issue and that he understands that his ability to run is the larger concern.

"I've been able to hit all along. I'm running at 75 percent. That means I might stop at second and not leg out the triples," Morse said with a grin.

With an early game on Wednesday, Morse figures the likelihood is Wedge will hold him back until Thursday night's series opener against the Yankees.