Tug

Hulett

Hulett, who often goes by Tug, hit .279/.350/.406 for Triple-A Oklahoma last season. That he’s a left-handed hitter with some ability at multiple infield positions has kept him on the very edge of prospectdom, but he’s not a good bet to put together a career as a utilityman.

Hulett was hitless in four at-bats with the Royals after being recalled on May 23. He’ll head back to Triple-A, where he will be able to find a greater amount of at-bats.

The move cleared way for John Buck, who will be activated from the disabled list before Monday’s game against the Tigers. Hulett was hitting .307/.388/.475 with four home runs and 34 RBI in 179 at-bats for Omaha, but managed just a single in 14 at-bats with the Royals.

Crisp was out with a sore shoulder before the death of his great grandmother. Tug Hulett figures to be sent to Omaha upon Crisp’s return.

Hulett spent a short time with the Royals in late May and went hitless in four at-bats. He’ll probably struggle to find playing time again. The 26-year-old infielder was batting .307/.388/.475 with four home runs and 34 RBI in 179 at-bats for Omaha.

The Royals were desperate for infield depth after Mike Aviles hit the disabled list with a forearm issue. Hulett will provide just that, but he’s not going to be a fantasy asset. He was given just nine at-bats this spring.

Hulett helped the United States retain their World Cup title with a home run in Sunday’s 10-5 victory over Cuba. He hit .291/.384/.473 with 11 home runs and 53 RBI in 99 games this season for Omaha.

The Mariners were obviously worried that Hulett might upstage Miguel Cairo and Willie Bloomquist if kept around for any length of time. They couldn’t have that.

The Mariners will see if Hulett should get a chance to take over Willie Bloomquist’s utility role next year. The 25-year-old was hitting .298/.380/.515 in Triple-A and he doesn’t lack for versatility.

Acquired from the Rangers for Ben Broussard back in December, Hulett hit .302/.378/.508 in 71 games at Triple-A. He’s capable of playing any infield spot defensively and offers good on-base skills, but hadn’t shown much power prior to this season and projects as a utility man.