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There's at least one large problem with postulating that Dreyer's post is a "for public consumption (only) party line" rather than a fairly accurate reflection of the club's actual thinking. That problem is: History shows us that Lincoln-Armstrong think and act precisely as she describes.
History shows us that upper management is not in the same game as the manager and the players. Given the opportunity to chase something special, the Mariners always refuse budgetary risk. Ask Lou Piniella, who saw it happen numerous times, most especially in 2001 and 2003.
This new generation of Mariners coaches, players and (some) fans is looking to see if the zebra has changed its stripes. Has it? We are about to find out.