The Seattle Mariners won the first game of Sunday’s double
header. It happened because Saturday’s game was postponed of rain. The Mariners
took a big lead early in the that game scoring seven runs in the first two
innings however they had to hang on to win 8-7.
The Mariners scored three runs in the first inning on a two
run homer by first baseman Danny Valencia and a solo by Kyle Seager. In the
second inning the Mariners scored four runs that included a three run homer by Nelson
Cruz to take a 7-0. Newcomer Marco Gonzales who made his first start for the
Mariners in the place of Felix Hernandez who was put on the disabled list on
Saturday gave up two runs on a homer in the third inning and three more runs in
the fifth inning so the lead than became 7-5 before Nelson Cruz second homer in
the seventh which was the difference in the game. The Mariner relievers did a
good job in the first game however Nick Vincent gave up a two run homer in the
eighth inning. He has had a good season so far we must forgive him having
trouble once a month. The Mariners
though lost Dave Phelps in the seventh inning. He hurt his elbow after getting
one out and had to leave the game. No additional details but he probably will
have to go on the disabled list.
The second game was not close with the Mariners losing 9-1.
Erasmo Ramirez only pitched five innings giving up four runs in the third and
then another run in the beginning of the sixth inning on a homer. He did pitch
well the first two innings. I wonder with the loss of Phelps that Ramirez will
go into the bullpen. He seems to do well as long as he only pitches a couple
innings. I think he has the Gallardo syndrome. Casey Lawrence pitched one
inning giving up no runs however Cody Martin who was activated for the game
gave up four runs in two innings. He likely will be sent back to Tacoma.
The Mariners did make a couple trades on Sunday. The big
trade first the Mariners picked up all-star first baseman Yonder Alonso from
the Oakland A’s for outfielder Boog Powell who had played a little for the
Mariners this season and was playing at Tacoma. The depth the Mariners have in
the outfield allowed the Mariners to make that trade. Alonso will be a free
agent at the end of the season. So he may be considered a rent a player however
the Mariners could decide to sign him a multi-year contact.
Not exactly sure what the Mariners will do next because they
still have Danny Valencia. He can play some outfield well as third base and
first. My speculation is that the Mariners could trade Valencia for a starting
pitcher.
The second trade was a minor league transaction. The Mariners
picked up a relief pitcher and a catcher from the Tampa Bay Rays. Not sure what
the Mariners will do with them however I am sure we will see the reliever have
some action with the Mariners and the catcher could come up in September. It could
be an audition for the backup catcher for next season. I am sure the Mariners
are hoping to have someone to backup Mike Zunino who is a bit younger than
Carlos Ruiz who is thirty-eight years old.
The Mariners should have details about Phelps today. With the
trade to get Alonzo the Mariners will have to make a move for a roster spot for
him along with one for Phelps. This could be a busy day again for general
manager Jerry Dipoto. Since the Mariners are going to Oakland than Alonzo can
meet the team there. Until next time go M’s.
I forgot other news. It was sad news where former player and
manager Don Baylor died. He was a Mariner hitting coach at one time as well.
All those in the baseball world will miss him. RIP Don Baylor.
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