SEATTLE (AP) — The Seattle Mariners are slowing Ichiro Suzuki’s return from tightness in his left calf.

Manager Don Wakamatsu said Wednesday the team has told its antsy, nine-time All-Star to do less and rest.

Suzuki was out of the lineup for the third consecutive game against Oakland.

The Gold Glove outfielder did some indoor work for the second consecutive day. He stretched on the field with his team before batting practice, then went inside for more treatment.

Suzuki missed eight games at the beginning of the season, following a bleeding ulcer.

Wakamatsu says the injury is not severe enough to consider placing Suzuki on the disabled list.

He needs 16 hits to become the first major leaguer with nine consecutive 200-hit seasons.