Monday, August 7, 2017

Mariners-Royals Split Double Header and Series


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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