Inbox: How much does Servais lean on coaches?

How much is Scott Servais leaning on his coaches for in-game strategy since he is a rookie manager? — Chris, Bothell, Wash.

I’ve been impressed with how Servais has handled himself in his first months as manager. And among the many positives has been his willingness to credit those around him — including bench coach Tim Bogar, pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre Jr. and hitting coach Edgar Martinez — for being important sounding boards and part of all his decisions. Clearly, he’s the one with the final word, but Servais and general manager Jerry Dipoto both seem very inclusive in seeking the opinions of others and having the confidence to acknowledge they’re not doing things all on their own.

Third-base coach Manny Acta and Bogar both have managerial experience and are good resources, but Servais quickly implemented his own approach and has handled himself like a veteran from Day 1. It seems like a very cohesive group, including first-base coach Casey Candaele and bullpen coach Mike Hampton, and Servais is the first to acknowledge that it’s a team effort.

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Do you think the Mariners need or will get another bullpen guy? I’m a bit worried about Joel Peralta and Nick Vincent holding up. — Matt B., Kenmore, Wash.

Your concerns are valid, as both right-handers have been used a lot more often and in higher-leverage situations than expected, due to injuries to Joaquin Benoit and Tony Zych. But the good news is Benoit is expected to return shortly, possibly as soon as Tuesday in Baltimore, and Zych is starting to throw again and figures to be back next month, if all goes well. It’s possible Charlie Furbush could also return around midseason.

Just getting Benoit back will be a big help, as that allows Peralta and Vincent to pitch in their normal roles and will lighten the load on closer Steve Cishek. Servais recently called …

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