EXHIBITION BASEBALL NOTES

Mariners say goodbye to big names for WBC

Robinson Cano, Nelson Cruz and Jean Segura were in a bit of a hurry after playing part of a spring training game over the weekend for the Seattle Mariners. They had to catch a plane to Florida, where their teammates from the Dominican Republic were convening for the World Baseball Classic to defend their 2013 title. "It's going to be really fun for us being around those guys," Segura said of his countrymen. "It's something we're going to give our all to, for sure." Ace Felix Hernandez was among 12 players, including both major leaguers and minor leaguers, the Mariners sent to the WBC. The departures mean the Mariners won't have their starting middle infield (Cano and Segura), designated hitter (Cruz) and Hernandez for anywhere from eight to 18 days. Additionally, two more starting pitchers are in the WBC, though Drew Smyly won't go unless Team USA makes the second round, and closer Edwin Diaz will join Team Puerto Rico at its camp in nearby Scottsdale, Arizona. "The one thing I can say to the guys going to the WBC is have fun, enjoy yourself, don't get hurt," Mariners manager Scott Servais said. "We have a big year ahead of us, they know that. They're in good shape, they're ready to go play. Opportunities for other guys to step up."

Red Sox 11, Braves 1

Boston starter Kyle Kendrick threw four hitless innings. He's in camp as a nonroster invitee. Andrew Benintendi doubled twice and AL MVP runner-up Mookie Betts had an RBI double and a sacrifice fly for the Red Sox. Former All-Star Kurt Suzuki had a hit and an RBI for Atlanta.

Yankees 3, Pirates 2

Masahiro Tanaka threw three scoreless innings and struck out four. He has yet to allow a run over two starts for the Yankees. Matt Holiday hit two doubles. Jameson Taillon threw two spotless innings for Pittsburgh.