Lopes, who's currently hitting .440 (11-for-25) with five doubles, seven RBI, two stolen bases and five runs in Grapefruit League play, is making a strong case for a roster spot with both his bat and defense, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

The 25-year-old was at it again during what could turn out to be the Mariners' Cactus League finale Wednesday against the Padres depending what MLB decides to do next with the start of the regular season, hitting the ball hard twice and also making an impressive diving stop in the third inning with a man on. Lopes was battling for a utility role this spring with the likes of Dylan Moore (forearm) after playing second base, both corner outfield spots and designated hitter last season. Manager Scott Servais lauded Lopes following Wednesday's game while acknowledging there's still plenty of decisions on final roster spots to be made. "He made the really nice play defensively and then got that whole sixth inning started with a base hit and stolen base," Servais said. "He continues to roll. The guys who have had good springs continue to kind of ride the wave here, which is great. They're all competing and fighting for jobs and making it tough decisions for us when it comes down to the wire."