Chris Woodward recalled, Jose Lopez on bereavement leave

An emotionally trying week off the field for the Mariners continued today with word that Jose Lopez has been placed on bereavement leave. There is no word yet on what the circumstances are, but he has left San Diego. He can be out for up to seven days. To take his roster spot, the Mariners recalled infielder Chris Woodward from San Diego. He will be in uniform today. Rob Johnson, placed on bereavement last week when his mother in law was killed in a car accident, is due back today. But the Mariners will be without Russ Branyan, who has flown to Georgia for the funeral of his grandfather. Branyan was not placed on bereavement list, and hopes to be in uniform tomorrow when the Mariners open a homestand in Seattle. Woodward was hitting .299 in Tacoma with one homer and 15 RBI Also, Jarrod Washburn said his back is still a little stiff but he plans to start Friday against the Diamondbacks.