Molina’s Back in the Swing

Shortstop Luis Molina took batting practice on Friday and said he feels “95%” healthy.

Trainer Rob Nodine said Molina, who has been out with a sore back, should be able to play early next week.

That’s good news for the JetHawks, not only because Molina is an excellent defensive shortstop but because it will allow Carlos Villalobos to get a day off at third base.

Utilityman Mike Lanza, who has been playing shortstop, will play third while Villalobos takes a much-needed day off or plays designated hitter.

Villalobos has been steady at the plate, hitting in 13 of 15 games with a .318 average and 14 runs batted in, but he has made nine errors.

“He’s got the ability to make great plays,” Manager Dave Brundage said. “But on the routine ones its just a lack of concentration.”

Villalobos, who turned 21 two weeks ago, is the youngest player on the team. He’s in his second year at third base, moving from the outfield.

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Jose Cruz Jr., who got off to a torrid start in which his average remained over .400, batted .235 (four for 17) in a four-game stretch before Friday night.

Brundage said Cruz, a first-round pick last year, might be pressing with Larry Beinfest, the Seattle Mariners’ director of player development, and Jim Skaalen, coordinator of minor league instruction, watching this homestand.

“I’m sure he’s a little bit anxious,” Brundage said.

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Tonight’s Game:

High Desert (Matt Marenghi, 0-1, 3.63) at JetHawks (Marino Santana, 1-1, 4.50), 7:15.