Kenji Johjima comes off the disabled list Friday and, presumably, returns as the Mariners' starting catcher.
But Rob Johnson, who filled in more than adequately for Johjima during the two weeks he was sidelined by a hamstring injury, probably has earned more playing time. Before the injury put Johjima on the DL for the first time in his big-league career, Johnson had made only two starts. He's made all but three starts since.
Johnson had two hits April 15 after coming into the game for the injured Johjima. He had two other two-hit games and drove in seven runs in the two weeks he was the go-to guy.
He hit .278 with three doubles and a triple.
On top of that, Seattle pitchers have worked well with Johnson, compiling a 2.88 ERA with him behind the mound.
Seattle GM Jack Zduriencik and manager Don Wakamatsu will have to make a roster move to get Johjima back on the active roster. Catcher Jamie Burke, who was called up when Johjima went down, is expected to designated for assignment.
