WSU Wins Alamo Bowl

The Washington State Cougars won their 11th game of the season the first for the school's football program. They beat Iowa State in a close game in San Antonio, Texas 28-26.

As you can guess the game could have gone either way. The Cougars did have a 21-10 half-time score. So Iowa State had to fight back in the second half hoping to win.  The difference though was turnovers especially in the fourth quarter when Marcus Strong intercepted a pass that looked like a sure touchdown but he was charged a penalty for taunting so the Cougars had to make a touchdown the old fashion way. This put the Cougars up 28-20. The Cyclones didn't give up at that point getting a touchdown but unable to convert to tie the game making the score 28-26.

Quarterback Gardner Minshew for the Cougars was player of the game. He had no interceptions in the game which helped to seal the game for them. He passed the ball 49 times and completing 35 of them for 299 yards and two touchdowns. Quite the feat when you figure the Cougars only ran the ball 17 times for a miserable 28 yards. Junior receiver Dezmon Patmon had 6 receptions for 76 yards and a touchdown. Minshew threw the ball to nine different receivers in the game including running backs James Williams and Max Borgi. The only other receiver to get a touchdown was Renard Bell which had the only one catch.

The Pac-12 had done poorly, to say the least in the past year going 1-11 before this game. On Tuesday, the Washington Huskies go against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Rose Bowl. We hope they can get the victory in this one.

Nelson Cruz Signs With Minnesota

Former Mariner's free agent Nelson Cruz signed a one-year contract on Thursday, December 27 with the Minnesota Twins. The contract is for $14 million plus an option for 2020 as well. I am sure all Mariner fans will miss Cruz. On social media, he thanked the Mariners ownership, management, players and fans for his four years in Seattle. I am sure we all thank Cruz for his time in Seattle as well. 

The Mariners I am sure felt it was time to move on from Cruz along with the other players they traded away or released. They now have Edwin Encarnacion as the designated hitter. In 2019 the Mariners will pay him $16 million then have a buyout of $5 million for 2020. It seems to me the money is about the same so why not bring back Cruz? The answer to that could take place soon or during the season. 

The Mariners may decide to trade Encarnacion before the season begins for some prospects though they may have to pay part of his salary as well. This happens then the Mariners likely won't have an everyday designated hitter. We could see Jay Bruce who they picked up from the Mets in the trade for Robinson Cano and Edwin Diaz be at designated hitter well as left field. The Mariners may use Daniel Vogelbach as the DH against right-handed pitchers.  Several different options when facing a left-handed pitcher. They could use one of their regulars at DH to rest them in the field on occasion as well. This is true especially if they have some nagging injuries. 

I hope they do trade Encarnacion so they can use the money saved to help bring in a starting pitcher and or relief pitcher. I have mentioned before I don't really like full-time DH's though Cruz and Edgar Martinez were exceptions to the rule. 

Daniel Vogelbach could be considered a DH only player, however, he can play some first base though he has to work on his range. I want players though they may be at DH three or times a week can still play in the field. This would allow a team to add another player to the roster instead of having a player who can only DH. 

I am sure Dipoto and his staff are working at adding more depth to the pitching staff. The Mariners certainly need another experienced reliever and an experienced starter would help to go a long way as well to improve the team. The Mariners are now about six weeks away from training camp starting so filling out the rest of the roster will be important. Next time on the Mariners I will list who the Mariners have far as pitching goes on the 40-man roster. I hope we have an addition or two by then. 

Looking Toward the New Year

First of all, I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and holiday season. Now we look toward the New Year and what is in store for us and our favorite teams in Washington state.

The Washington State Cougars football team will end the year playing in the Alamo Bowl. I am sure most Cougar fans are disappointed they are not playing in a bigger bowl since they had a great season. The Cougars men's basketball team will end the year playing Santa Clara and look forward to Pac-12 season which begins early January. Of course, we can't forget the women team either.  We hope 2019 will be a successful year for the Cougars too.

The Seattle Seahawks will end the season against the Arizona Cardinals at home then look forward to the playoffs in January. We all hope the Seahawks will go far in the playoffs. 

University of Washington Huskies football team play in the Big Daddy bowl game of all on New Year's Day against Ohio State. We all hope this will be an upset against the Buckeyes.  A good way to start off the new year. Later in the evening, the men's basketball team will play against Cal State Fullerton to end the non-league season. We all hope this help lead the Huskies to a successful Pac-12 season where they will make their way into the NCAA tournament in March. We hope the same success for the women's team as well.

We wish the best for the Seattle Mariners for 2019. Now having a lot of new players along with a new name of T-Mobile Park. General Manager Jerry Dipoto has had a busy off-season so far trading off big-name players like Mike Zunino, Edwin Diaz, Robinson Cano, Alex Colome, and Jean Segura. I am sure I have forgotten a few big-name players. One player Dipoto received in the Segura trade in Carlos Santana he traded to the Cleveland Indians.  Now we hope for a few more trades or signings to bolster up the club. We a different looking infield with Kyle Seager at third base, Dee Gordon at second, and Ryon Healy along with a different shortstop. Of course, Gordon could end up moving over to shortstop. The outfield field only has Mitch Haniger returning. We see what happens. 

We will see what news goes forward this week before the new year. 

Seahawks Pass and Run To the Playoffs

I am sure many of us didn't expect the Seahawks go to the playoffs this season with all the changes happening during the off-season. I hope something works the same way for the Mariners!

The Seahawks will finish the season second place in the NFC West behind the Los Angeles Rams. The Seahawks have a record of 9-6 and could win 10 games if they beat Arizona Cardinals next Sunday. The chances are pretty good they well, however, we do know difficult to beat another team in the same division twice in the same season. They haven't played the Cardinals for some time, unlike the 49ers they did two weeks apart.

The Seahawks made it an exciting ending to the game. Russell Wilson threw two exciting throws to Doug Baldwin and Lockett late in the game. Personally, I would have run the ball instead to keep the clock running near the end of the game. The coaches though knew what Wilson and the receivers were capable of. 

Both tight ends Ed Dickson and Nick Vannett each caught a touchdown in the game. The third touchdown Wilson threw was to Doug Baldwin in the third quarter. Dickson's touchdown took place in the fourth quarter after the Seahawks were able to keep the ball after Sebastian Janikowski missed a field goal however a roughing the kicker happened. Janikowski did continue field goal kicking though he didn't look that good walking around. Punter Michael Dickson did a couple dropkicks after scores. Right after the Ed Dickson touchdown, Janikowski did the kickoff but the returner put the Chiefs in a good position to score a field goal then they tried an on-side kick which went out of bounds. Vannett was set to field the ball if necessary. I would have had Michael Dickson though kick off once again.  Janikowski missed a field goal early on in the game too. I believe the Seahawks should go out and find themselves another kicker since Janikowski didn't look right and performing poorly as well. 

The Seahawks had the ball ten more minutes in the game then the chiefs primarily because of the running game. Russell Wilson threw the ball 29 times completing 18 for 271 yards, however, the key was rushing the ball 43 times for 210 yards.  Chris Carson led the Seahawks rushing attack with 27 carries for 116 and two touchdowns. He had the first and last touchdowns of the game. 

The game was close and in doubt most of the way with the Seahawks winning 38-31. Against a team like the Chiefs, it was a success story for sure. 

Next week the Seahawks I am sure will run the ball again. I wouldn't be surprised if Wilson, Baldwin, Lockett, and Carson will play limited action to be ready for the playoffs. It was nice to see K.J. Wright back in at linebacker as well. 

So have a Merry Seahawk Christmas the 12th man. Go Hawks!

Merry Christmas to All and Good Mariners Season in 2019

I want to wish every everyone a wonderful Christmas right off the bat. 

I wonder whether Jerry Dipoto will make another trade or signing before Christmas Eve.

It would be nice if Santa Claus can bring the Mariners a starting pitcher or a closer. A starter who can be a number one or two would be great. I am sure there are those who think why do the Mariners need a closer if they don't win a lot of games this coming season. Who knows they could surprise us. 

The Mariners could win more games than we think in 2019. If they can break even in division play and do a better job beating teams in inter-league play could be around 80 to 84 wins. 

I don't expect the Angels and the Rangers to be much better than last season. The A's may not win as many games as last season. I expect the Astros to be about the same. The American league east the Red Sox and Yankees should be about the same if not better. The Toronto Blue Jays probably won't be as good so the Mariners can beat them at home that would be nice. The Tampa Bay Rays might win the same amount of games at 90 and the Orioles a little better.

In the American League Central, I don't expect the Cleveland Indians will be as good as last year and the Mariners did fine against them last season. I don't think the rest of the central will be much better either. So the Mariners might be better than we think. 

It is hard to know of course at this time how many games the Mariners will win but they may surprise us. They had an awesome first half but reality set in after the all-star break.  This was even with four all-star players and Mitch Haniger is the only one will be back. Also, Robinson Cano missed half the season and he isn't returning either.  A lot will come down to the starting pitching along with the bullpen. Outside of Alex Colome and Edwin Diaz, the rest of the bullpen didn't do that well.  Whatever the bullpen turns out to be we may see a better one. I know this would be a surprise too.  We just hope whomever the closer is he won't blow too many games. The importance is the setup men will be able to keep the lead up to the closer. 

Anyway a toast right now for the coming 2019. Once again Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  

Mariners Sign a Lefty and a Trade In-Hand

On Thursday the Mariners signed left-handed relief specialist Zach Rosscup to a one-year contract.  Rosscup has been injured most of the last year two years. 

The Mariners had only lefty in the bullpen in Roenis Elias, and he is considered more of a long reliever. Elias could be the fifth starter in the rotation as well. GM Jerry Dipoto was looking to pick up a lefty specialist. I wouldn't be surprised if the Mariners will keep looking for another lefty with more success. Signing Rosscup to a one-year contract isn't a big risk if things don't work out with him.

The Mariners announced just minutes ago they had traded outfielder Ben Gamel along with a minor league pitcher to the Milwaukee Brewers for outfielder Domingo Santana. This should be good for Gamel who had become the Mariners fourth outfielder with the trades the Mariners had made over the off-season. Jay Bruce another left-handed hitter was considered the starter in left field so Gamel wouldn't have played a lot except an occasional start or pinch hitting. 

Santana now can be used platooning with Bruce in left field. He is listed as a right fielder so he could play there as well moving Mitch Haniger to center field to give center fielder Mallix Smith a day off. Santana had off-year in 2018 hitting .265 in 85 games. He had a .328 on-base percentage. In 2017 he had an outstanding season hitting 30 home runs along with 85 runs batted in. He is only 26 years so he will be under team control for two more years so it isn't a high-risk situation for the Mariners. 

Going to Milwaukee Brewers will be a good thing for Gamel. The Brewers were stacked with right-handed hitting outfielders so picking up Gamel will give him more playing time. Not only will he have a chance to possibly platoon with Milwaukee he can be used as a left-handed hitting pinch hitter. 

Being stacked with right-handed hitting outfielders is the reason the Brewers were willing to trade Santana to the Mariners. Dipoto is hoping Santana can rebound from the poor 2018 season he had. Even if he doesn't hit 30 home runs next season if he can get around 15 home runs batting around .270 in a platoon situation than be a successful trade for the Mariners. 

Ben Gamel was popular in Seattle even though he played part-time for the Mariners. I know we will miss seeing him but with the Mariners making all these changes to the roster, not a big surprise either. We wish Gamel the very best in Milwaukee. 

Now T-Mobile Park

Not really anyone's surprise the Seattle Mariners are now playing in T-Mobile Park. The Mariners made the announcement today, December 19 they have signed a 25-year agreement for the naming rights.

I am sure some of us will continue calling it Safeco Field for a while. T-Mobile may be a cell phone carrier but the name sounds like a place people will go to stay in their RV's with park at the end of the name, 

Now, this agreement has taken place it is now time to see who Jerry Dipoto will sign or trade for the next six or seven weeks before spring training begins. Recently they have signed a few minor leaguers who probably will be invited to spring training but not someone we can say wow too. These have been players who will add depth in case of injuries but anyone not expected really to be on the roster when the season begins. At least the Mariners are making changes to the AAA roster as well. 

I don't expect any trades like they have made already unless they plan to move Edwin Encarnacion or Jay Bruce for some other major league player and prospects. Otherwords, reduce salaries. Dipoto may look at doing so during the trading deadline in July as well. We will see, won't we? 

Seahawks Can't Make Playoffs Yet

I am sure most of us thought the Seahawks would win Sunday afternoon in Santa Clara and move to the playoffs. They hadn't lost to the 49ers since 2013 so why any different? It wasn't the case this time.

The Seahawks did make the 49ers go all the way to overtime to beat them. In overtime, it looked like the Seahawks would march down and score at least a field to win. Of course, on a field goal, the 49ers would have had the opportunity to tie or win the game themselves. On a touchdown, the Seahawks would have won the game. The game ends if the team who wins the toss and decides to go for it scores a touchdown. Since the Seahawks were unable to do so the 49ers had the opportunity to do so which they did.

I am sure we all thought Russell Wilson would do his magic tricks during overtime since it didn't happen in the fourth quarter. The Seahawks had opportunities to score or in position to do so. Running back J.D. McKissic caught a long pass however the offensive line was caught for holding. It wasn't the only time on the drive they were caught for holding. Russell Wilson wasn't able to make any moves after the penalties and the Seahawks had to punt the ball. Punter Michael Dickson as usual hit a great punt however the Seahawks were unable to take advantage of it. So when the 49ers got into position to kick a field goal they did so on third down to win the game 26-23.

The Seahawks did get a good game out of the running game once again with Chris Carson running for 119 yards on 22 carriers with a touchdown early on in the fourth quarter. Mike Davis had 21 yards on 5 carriers. So another good day running the ball.

The Seahawks had Doug Baldwin back this week and he helped out getting two touchdowns along with some other key catches in the game. The first touchdown was the Seahawks first score in the first quarter however the kick failed. The problem the 49ers returned the kickoff after the touchdown for a score to make it 7-6. The 49ers scored another touchdown in the second quarter before Baldwin score his second touchdown in the second quarter. The 490ers kicked another field goal before the half was over to be up 17-14.

The question I had was why the Seahawks didn't go for a two-point conversion in either the second touchdown or the Carson touchdown in the 4th quarter. Had they made the two-point conversion they would have won the game in regulation. The same goes if Janikowski had made the kick on the first touchdown. Whatever the case the Seahawks lost the game.

The Seahawks now come home to play next Sunday night against the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs lost their game on Thursday night so they will want to win the game badly along with the Seahawks. Even if the Seahawks win the game there is no guarantee they will clinch a playoff spot next week either. May come down to the final game against the Arizona Cardinals the following week. 

Now time not to relax and see what happens. I am sure many thought the Seahawks may not make the playoffs this season after the turnovers of players after last season however the guys are making every effort to do so. Go Hawks!

What Is Next For Mariners

Now that Jerry Dipoto returns home to Seattle after being in the hospital and the winter meetings we could see some more moves for the Mariners. 

There is a possibility the Mariners could trade Edwin Encarnacion or Jay Bruce or both. A lot will depend on what other teams want to give in young players and other veterans. 

The Mariners are still shopping for a veteran shortstop along with some pitching whether starters or relief pitchers. They could sign either one in free agency when the prices go down during January. At least one starter would be nice and they need to go after a few relief pitchers. Also, the Mariners will probably sign another catcher to compete for the backup catcher.  

Next week at least one move will probably be made if not several. Dipoto will need to rest this weekend over getting out of the hospital but he may not either.

In other local news, the UW Huskies go to New Jersey to take on #15 ranked Virginia Tech Hokies today Saturday. This will be another big game for the Huskies to get ready for Pac-12 schedule starting on January 5 at home against the Washington State Cougars. Between the Hokies and the Cougars, the Huskies will play Sacremento State on Dec 21 then take a holiday break then take on California State University Fullerton on New Year's night. Those games will be at home for the Huskies too.

Seattle Seahawks will be playing Sunday night Dec 16 on the road at Santa Clara to take on the 49ers for the second time in three weeks. The Seahawks can clinch a playoff spot if they win. 

Winter Meetings Coming to Close for Mariners

Jerry Dipoto and the Seattle Mariners haven't done much this week at the Winter Meetings. On Wednesday he had a cold so he let his management team do the job. 

The Mariners did make a few minor moves but certainly nothing like he did before meetings. I don't think many expected to make a big splash. I am sure he talked to a few teams about trades and free agents as well. The Mariners won't sign any high priced free agents however with Dipoto he could make a surprise move.

Dipoto is interested in Japanese free agent pitcher Yusei Kikuchi. This would be something to sign him with needing another starting pitcher plus the fact the Mariners will start the season against the Oakland A's in March 2019 in Japan. Signing Kikuchi would make things big back home for him too. Of course, there are other teams interested in him as well.

An interesting move at the beginning of the winter meetings was the Mariners picking up Kaleb Cowart off of waivers from the Los Angeles Angels. Jerry Dipoto said the Mariners would make him into a two-way player. In his pro career, he has played primarily played the infield. When he was drafted by the Angels in 2010 they talked about making him into a pitcher but he wanted to play every day. He isn't a good hitter batting below .200 in his career but plays good defense and his fastball does reach the mid 90's. So if he makes the Mariner could see him do both.

During this writing, Jerry Dipoto made a trade with the Cleveland Indians sending Carlos Santana who they had acquired in the trade with the Phillies for Jean Segura. The Mariners acquire designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion and a competitive balance Round B pick in 2019 which is the 77th overall pick. The Mariners could move Encarnacion along as well. Dipoto made this trade while being in the hospital. He is expected to be released Thursday and head home to Seattle. 

In the Rule 5 draft, the Mariners took righthanded pitcher Brandon Brennan from the Colorado Rockies organization. Last year he pitched for double-A Birmingham and triple-A Charlotte of the Chicago White Sox organization. Recently the Rockies had signed him to a minor league contract.

Stay tuned to what Dipoto and the Mariners will do further. 

Seahawks Win Again On Monday Night Football

I wouldn't call it the most exciting game on record Monday night between the Seattle Seahawks and the Minnesota Vikings. The Seahawks did win the game 21-7, however, the score didn't really indicate how the game really worked out.

The Seahawks were leading 3-0 on a field goal going into the fourth quarter. The Seahawks actually had a chance to score at least a field goal if not a touchdown just before the end of the first half. Russell Wilson was looking to throw the ball but was being rushed so badly he threw an errant pass a Viking defender intercepted. The pass could have gone the other way for a Viking touchdown but the defender went down instead. Wilson should have the thrown into the ground which may go for intentional grounding instead of the interception. The Viking ran the clock out. 

The third quarter wasn't very eventful with neither team scoring. You could call it an outstanding defensive game or terrible offense on both parts. Likely it was the combination of both. The Seahawks though ran the ball pretty well getting into Viking territory several times while the Vikings didn't have the same results until late into the game.

The Seahawks were able to run the ball for 214 yards on 42 carries. The Seahawks were led by Chris Carson having 90 yards on 22 carriers. Russell Wilson was next with 61 yards on 7 carriers. He had an important carry in the fourth quarter going for 40 yards. The Vikings defenders were faked out big time on the play by Wilson. Rashaad Penny had a good night as well. He had 44 yards on 8 carriers. He looked like he could have carried the ball more but Carson was having a good night.

Russell Wilson besides the interception didn't have a good night throwing the ball. He had 10 catches completed on 20 attempts for 72 yards. Tyler Lockett had five of the catches Wilson completed going for 42 yards. Lineman George Fant playing a lot as the second tight end on running plays actually caught the first pass of his career 9 yards. It wasn't pretty but effective.

The scoring in the fourth quarter the Seahawks had a field goal by Janikowski early on to make it 6-0 so the Vikings still had the chance to win until the last three minutes of the game.  Chris Carson had a 2-yard touchdown run with 2:53 remaining in the game than Tyler Lockett had a two-point conversion to make it 14-0. This happened after Bobby Wagner blocked a Viking field goal attempt.  This looked like it clinched the game for the Seahawks. 

The scoring wasn't over because of Justin Coleman 29 yard fumble return for a touchdown at the 2:35 mark left in the game. The fumble was caused by a hit on quarterback Kirk Cousins by Bobby Wagner. This meant now the game was over. All the Seahawks wanted to do was shut out the Vikings the rest of the way, however, the Viking scored a touchdown on a pass by Cousins to running back Dalvin Cook for six yards at the 1:10 mark. The Seahawks then took the knee twice to run out the clock.

The Seahawks now have a record of 8-5 which should get them into the playoffs. Next Sunday they go to Santa Clara to take on the 49ers once again after beating them last week. The following week at home they play the tough Kansas City Chiefs. They will finish the season at home against the Arizona Cardinals. The Seahawks should win the games against the 69ers and Cardinals. Even if they lose to the Chiefs the Seahawks they will have a final record of 10-6. This is better than any of us really expected on the season. Making the playoffs anything can happen and who knows where the Seahawks land.

The news came out on Tuesday morning offensive coordinator John DeFilippo was fired because of his play calling. Quarterback coach Kevin Stefanski will take over the play calling the rest of the way. Although the Seahawks defense had an outstanding game Viking head coach Mike Zimmer wasn't pleased by DeFilippo play calling. Whether it was his fault or the way Cousins executed the offense he was the fall guy. 

Seahawks take on the Vikings

The Seattle Seahawks this week take on the Minnesota Vikings at home. The game this week takes place on Monday night where the Seahawks have the best record than any other team in the NFL. 

The Seahawks are 21-9 all-time on Monday night while at home they are 15-5. This shows the network and the NFL like having the Seahawks at home when they play on Monday night.

The biggest win far as margin for the Seahawks on Monday night was when they beat the Philadelphia Eagles in 2005 42-0. The defense had a good night scoring three touchdowns in the game. This game took place in Philadelphia and both teams had to deal with snow but it didn't stop the Seahawks at all.

There is a good possibility rain will happen during this game Monday night so should give the Seahawks a good edge in this game as well. The Seahawks have a record of 7-5 going into this game while the Vikings are 6-5-1. This means the game is important for both teams to make the playoffs.

The Seahawks will need to win this game because they go to Santa Clara to take on the 49ers night Sunday. Though the Seahawks beat the 49ers last week it is never easy for teams to play on Sunday after a Monday night game. I expect though the Seahawks should still win that game as well.

Major League Baseball Winter Meetings

Jerry Dipoto and his staff will be in Las Vegas, Nevada for major league baseball winter meetings beginning on Monday. 

The Mariners are not expected to make any big splash in regards to trades like they have recently in the trades of  Mike Zunino, Guillermo Heredia, James Paxton, Robinson Cano, Edwin Diaz, Alex Colome, Jean Segura, Juan Nicasio and James Pazos.

The Mariners 40-man roster certainly looks different than the one I looked at over a month ago. Outside of Paxton the starting rotation right now looks like Marco Gonzales, Mike Leake, Wade LeBlanc and Felix Hernandez. The fifth starter could be  Justus Sheffield and or Erik Swanson they picked up in the Paxton trade. Sheffield and Swanson could both start in Tacoma at triple-A however likely be the rotation by the all-star break.

Jerry Dipoto will look add to the bullpen with the departures of Colome, Diaz, Nicasio and James Pazos. Only Dan Altavilla and Chasen Bradford pitched in more than 20 games out of the bullpen for the Mariners last season. Most of Altavilla's relief pitching happened early on in the season having to go on the disabled list because of an injury to his right elbow. Bradford had early success with the Mariners however with so much work of those in the bullpen he spent some time in Tacoma as well.

With the departure of James Pazos the Mariners only have one left handed reliever in the bullpen in Roinas Elias. He has been used primarily in long relief though I am sure he could get in some action as a left handed specialist however Dipoto will look for someone who has experience in that area. Dipoto would have looked for a left handed specialist anyway because the Mariners poor performances in that area last season and needed to upgrade anyway.

The Mariners will have to look to see if they can find a closer on the market. I am sure there are fans who think the Mariners will be so bad they don't really need a closer. Right now the only three real possible closers on the 40-man roster right now to close would be Dan Altavilla because he throws the ball hard, Matt Festa throws hard as well and was the closer in double A most of last season. 

The third member of the group would be Shawn Armstrong who closed for the Tacoma Rainier's most of last season. Armstrong had success in September when promoted after the triple A season. He primarily came out as the first reliever out of the bullpen. In 14 games he had a record of 0-1 with an era of 1.23 with 15 strike outs and one save. 

Altavilla, Festa, and Armstrong would all be best served as setup men in the bullpen though they could each try their hand at it if Dipoto isn't able to get a closer. However, with Dipoto I am sure he will find someone.

Other candidates the Mariners will have at this time in the setup roles as righthanders  include Anthony Swarzak the veteran pitcher they picked up in the Robinson Cano and Edwin Diaz trade from the New York Mets. He missed most of last season with a sore oblique though he did find a way to pitch in 29 games His time on the mound wasn't great since he had an era of 6.15. He had four saves so the Mariners could use him to in the role of closer if they don't find a way to move him on.

The Mariners have only Sam Tuivailala for the bullpen with really much major league experience besides the ones already mentioned. The Mariners picked him at the end of July before the trading deadline from the St. Louis Cardinals. However, he was injured in a run down in early August and missed the rest of the season. He may not be ready to go at the beginning of the season though.

Besides adding pitching the Mariners will likely go out and find another catcher to add to the roster. They have only two on the 40-man roster with David Freitas who was the backup catcher to Mike Zunino for much of the season and Omar Narvaez they picked up in the trade for Alex Colome from the Chicago White Sox.

Narvaez is expected to be the Mariners starting catcher. He isn't the defensive catcher Zunino is and doesn't have nearly the power in the bat either. He does hit for a better average along with on base percentage. Narvaez bats left handed so likely the Mariners will go out and pick up a right handed hitting catcher or go with Freitas who bats right handed as well. So likely Freitas or whomever they pick up will catch once or twice a week and start against a tough left handed starter. 

Narvaez batted .275 with an on-base percentage of .366. Although he doesn't have a lot of home run power he did have nine home runs along with 14 doubles. He walked 38 times and struck out 65 times in 98 games. 

When it comes to the regular every day lineup the Mariners may not make any more moves unless they want to lower more payroll by trading Jay Bruce who they picked up in the Robinson Cano and Edwin Diaz trade or Carlos Santana in the Jean Segura trade. Also they could trade second baseman Dee Gordon or third baseman Kyle Seager. Those two most likely wouldn't happen unless someone offers something real good.

The Mariners may have to go out and pick up a second baseman or shortstop if J.P. Crawford isn't ready to play everyday at shortstop they picked him up in the Jean Segura trade. Dee Gordon could move over to short if a second baseman is picked up instead of a shortstop. 

The Mariners could look to pick up a veteran utility player who primarily play shortstop. Near the end of last season they picked up Kristopher Negron from the Arizona Diamondbacks who played most of last season in triple A. The Mariners were impressed by him however he doesn't have much major league experience so likely would only play sparingly. 

So this coming week will be interesting to see so is added onto the roster. The Mariners right now have 35 players on the 40-man roster so five players can be added without any additional changes needed. This would be for any free agent signees whether for the starting rotation, bullpen, catcher, infield or outfield.  Go M's .  

Seattle Seahawks, Mariners and UW Huskies

The Seattle Seahawks beat the San Francisco 49ers as expected on Sunday at Century Link Field 43-16. It was a win everyone expected. This win allowed to have Richard Sherman keep pretty quiet. 

If you look at the stats with the 49ers passing for over 400 yards and Russell Wilson passing only 17 times completing 11 with 4 touchdowns  for 185 yards.  You would have thought the 49ers would have won the game. The Seahawks were able to recover several turnovers including a 98 yard interception by Bobby Wagner for a touchdown.  Even if the interception hadn't occurred the Seahawks would have won the game anyway. 

The Seahawks had another good game running the back with Chris Carson going for 69 yards plus Rashaad Penny following up with 65. Penny had a 20 yard touchdown in the 3rd quarter included. It is nice to see having two good running backs going for the Seahawks plus Mike Davis as well though he ran the ball only four times. He has been able to run for a hundred yards on occasions as well. 

The Seahawks are now 7-5 with four games remaining on the schedule on the season. They have a good opportunity to make the playoffs. Next game will be this coming Monday Night against the Minnesota Vikings at home. The following week at San Francisco then remaining two games will be at Century Link field as well. They play the Kansas City Chiefs and then end the season against the Arizona Cardinals. The Seahawks should be able to go at least 2-2 in those games. A 9-7 record may get them into the playoffs though winning 3 out of 4 will make sure they get in. The playoff race is tight at this point.

The 49ers two touchdowns were by former Husky Dante Pettis. It was good to see his success against the Seahawks especially with Seattle winning. 

The Seattle Mariners made two big trades this week sending Robinson Cano and Edwin Diaz to the New York Mets. Also Jean Segura was sent to the Philadelphia Phillies. That trade I didn't understand as well not getting any prospects in return. It shows the Mariners really wanted to get rid of Segura most likely how his relationship was in the clubhouse especially as reported with Dee Gordon. More trades may come forth in the next few weeks though Dipoto sure wouldn't be as big as the ones so far on the off-season.

The Washington Huskies football team beat Utah Utes in the Pac-12 Championship game last Friday and now will go against Ohio State in the Rose Bowl.

The Huskies men's basketball team have a big game tonight  (Wednesday) against state rival and #1 ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs in Spokane. On Sunday they will be back home to take on Seattle University. Going into this game the Huskies are 6-2.

Best to all the teams here in the state of Washington. Of course I can't forget the NHL awarded Seattle a franchise and they will play in the Pacific Division. Is expected to start playing in the 2020-21 season. Renovation of the Key Arena is expected to start immediately. Now we will have to see what they call the new team.

Cano and Diaz Dealt to the Mets

How many are surprised that Robinson Cano and Edwin Diaz are being traded to the New York Mets.  I know I certainly am. I am sure Jerry Dipoto tried with the Yankees first but they decided they didn't want him back for the price it would likely cost them.

I am sure Cano packed his bags for his contract for veteran players while Diaz went for the prospects. At this point I am sure without Paxton, Zunino and Cano moving Diaz made sense as well.

We will have to see whether the Mariners will make some other trades as well. There is talk about Jean Segura going to the Philadelphia Phillies after the trade to the San Diego Padres didn't work out which I am glad for because it wasn't a very good trade for sure.

I heard a national writer say sending Diaz to the Atlanta Braves would have been the best deal however they decided not to give up their top prospects. 

For  the short term this likely hurt the Mariners but help them for long term. Dipoto decided the team needed changes to compete with the Astros and A's for several years instead of adding bandages to the situation. 

Jay Bruce acquired in the trade will likely be the dh and on occasion play in the outfield unless Dipoto decides to trade him elsewhere.

Right now the starting line up is Ryon Healy at first base, Dee Gordon at second base, Jean Segura at shortstop, Kyle Seager at third base, Ben Gamel in left, Mallex in center, Mitch Haniger in right field, newly acquired Omar Narvaez at catcher and Bruce at dh. 

We will look at the pitching staff coming up later. 

Huskies Off To The Roses

Huskies #1 Bryon Murphy

The Washington Huskies won the Pac-12 Championship Friday night in Santa Clara California. A great way to the end the month of November for sure. We have to wait until we see who they will be playing against in the Rose Bowl.

The game was a defense one all the way along. Either  the Huskies or the Utah Utes could have won the game. What helped the Huskies was having the ball 20 more minutes than the Utes. 

Although they didn't score any offensive touchdowns they did get an interception by MVP of the game Bryon Murphy which turned into a touchdown. It bounced off the kneecap of the receiver. Sometimes it does take luck to win a football that is so close. 

The Utes could have won the game as easy as the Huskies. The Huskies had a 3-0 game at half-time and the Utes tied the game in the 3rd quarter before Murphy's touchdown.

One of the few times the Huskies went for a field goal which looked going into almost a sure thing however often college kickers miss those too however the Utes blocked the kick to keep it at a one score deficit. The field goal would have probably sewn up the game though.

I am sure there are plenty of fans that are not for either team would prefer someone else like the Cougars or the Ducks go to the Rose Bowl because of offense which in these days is understandable. This game it is hard to tell whether it was a lot about defense or the offense was not good either. Since the score ended 10-3 it is hard to know for sure. 

I am sure glad the Huskies are going. It has been a long time since they were last playing in the Rose Bowl was 2000.

Since the Rose Bowl is now a month away it is time to turn to watching the Huskies Men's basketball team. Right now they are 5-2. They play UC Santa Barbara on Sunday then coming up on Wednesday they take on state rival and number one ranked Gonzaga. It would be nice to see an upset with the Huskies winning. Whatever the case this will be a good game for the Huskies to get in against a top team. 

Anyway we congratulate the football team and let's go in the Rose Bowl. Go Huskies!

Name Tim Laker Hitting Coach and More on the them

The Seattle Mariners finally named their new hitting coach in place of Edgar Martinez who is taking another position in the organization. 

We had heard for at least a week that Tim Laker would be the next hitting coach of the Mariners in place of Edgar. Now it is officially he has taken the spot. I can't say whether Edgar was or not however Laker is on board when it comes to analytics like general manager Dipoto and manager Scott Servais. He feels the Mariners are one of the teams ahead of the game when it comes to analytics. He is glad that the hitters in the minor leagues are being taught that way as well. Whether it means the Mariners will have more of them come up to the major leagues or not time will tell for sure. In my mind it still comes down to talent though analytics will play a part. They are working with the pitchers on that area as well.

There is word out that the Mariners may send  Robinson Cano back to the Yankees. It could just be hear say as well though the reporters are pretty good doing their job when it comes to Mariner trades. 

What general manager Dipoto said after the trade of Paxton we should be expecting at least another trade or two. I am sure something is in the works. I wouldn't be surprised a trade will go forward this week now that Thanksgiving weekend is over. There will be an owner's meeting coming up in December so I am sure something will happen then if not before. So let's see what happens.

Seahawks Beat Panthers With Field Goal

The Seattle Seahawks won on the road important game to keep themselves still alive for the playoffs against a team competing for a playoff spot as well in the Carolina Panthers. 

Russell Wilson and the Seahawks once again came back to win this game. It was a tight game all the way with the Panthers leading 3-0 at the end of the first quarter. Each team scored a touchdown and a field goal in the second quarter with the Panthers leading 13-10. The 3rd quarter both teams scored a touchdown to make it 20-17. 

In the 4th quarter the Seahawks tied the game with a field goal then Panthers scored a touchdown. The Seahawks had to respond with a touchdown themselves near the end of the game. The Panthers got into field goal range however they missed a 52 yard field goal giving the Seahawks a chance to win with 1 minute and 40 seconds  to go. The final series leading to the win the big play was a deep pass by Russell Wilson to Tyler Lockett for 43 yards to the Panthers 10 yard line. The Seahawks took the next two snaps where Wilson went to the knee before spiking the ball since they had no timeouts left. Sebastian Janikowski kicked the field goal registered at  31 yards to win the game.

This game for the Seahawks was played primarily behind the arm of Russell Wilson. He threw the ball 31 times completing 22 for 339 yards and two touchdowns. Tyler Lockett had a big game besides the ball that setup the win he had five receptions in total for 107 yards and the touchdown in the 3rd quarter. Also David Moore had a big game catching 4 times for 103 yards including the touchdown tying the game at 27-27. The field goal at the end made the final score 30-27.

The Seahawks ran the ball 28 times in the game but ran for 75 yards the lowest total since they played in the two losses against Denver and Chicago at the beginning of the season.  Chris Carson led the Seahawks running the ball 16 times for 55 yards and the first touchdown of the game on the ground. 

Cam Newton had a good game through the air as well throwing the ball 30 times with 25 completions two touchdowns and an interception. Also he was second on the Panthers in rushing going 63 yards on eight carries.  Christian McCaffrey the Seahawks had a hard time stopping for the Panthers. He carried the ball 17 times for 125 yards and a touchdown. Also he caught the ball 11 times for 112 yards and another touchdown.

The Seahawks now have a record of 6-5 tied with the Panthers so they would make the playoffs with breaking the tie if they both win out. The Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Redskins have the same record as well. One of the two likely will win the NFC East division. The Seahawks beating the Cowboys will have the tie breaker there to if the Redskins win the division. 

The Seahawks will play division rival San Francisco 49ers next Sunday afternoon in Seattle. The 49ers are 2-9 without a win on the road so the Seahawks will be favored to win that game and it will be important for them to do so. Go Hawks!

Huskies Win Snow Bowl

Although it was supposed to be the Apple Cup between the Washington Huskies and the Washington State Cougars it turned out to be a game played in a snow storm all the way through at Martin Stadium on the Cougars campus.

The Huskies dominated the first half scoring two touchdowns by running back Myles Gaskin however the Cougars were able to muster a touchdown before the half ended to make the score 14-7. The Cougars could have tied the score though when the Huskies fumbled the ball under a minute to go in the half but they couldn't do so. Half-time score Huskies 14 Cougars 7

The second half in their first possession the Huskies scored another touchdown on a trick play when Jake Browning tossed a pass behind the line of scrimmage to Aaron Fuller who then threw it to tight end Hunter Bryant for a touchdown. The Huskies missed the extra point however the Cougars run it back for two points.

Close to the end of the third quarter James Williams ran in for a touchdown to make it Huskies 20 Cougars 15. 

Early on in the fourth quarter Myles Gaskin got his third touchdown of the game by running for 80 points. The Cougars were unable to come back and had to punt to the Huskies. Gaskins pretty ran the ball the rest of the game. He had a total of 170 yards.

Now the Huskies will go to the Pac-12 tournament next Friday night against the  Utah Utes at Levi Stadium. The Cougars hopes for a chance at the national championship is over however they can play in a major bowl still.

A great way for seniors especially Jake Browning and Myles Gaskins to win all the Apple Cup's they played in.  See you Huskies next Friday night and we hope you take care of the Utes mightily. I expect there will be no snow. 

The Apple Cup

The Washington Huskies go to Pullman Washington to take on the Washington State Cougars in the Apple Cup tonight(Friday). The Cougars are ranked #7 in the country so this means a lot to them.  

The Huskies are not only want to knock them off it is the last Apple Cup for seniors including quarterback Jake Browning and running back Myles Gaskin. Along with Coach Chris Peterson they help turn around a football program that had gone the wrong direction. They put the Huskies back in the national scene as well. Of course the Cougars are in the national scene as well. 

The winner of this game will go to the Pac-12 Championship to face Utah the southern division winner. For the Huskies winning both games  means they will probably play in the Rose Bowl while the Cougars could end up in the National Championship series depending how the other teams above them do.  

So a lot is on the line for both the Huskies and the Cougars. I feel the Huskies the favorite though the Cougars are favored to win. Browning and Gaskin want to go out on top along with the fact they have an outstanding core of defensive backs. On the other hand this could be the greatest game in this series and all-time for the Cougars to win this game. Whatever the outcome is it will be fantastic for sure. Let the best team win. Yeah!

Paxton Goes to New York

Ever since Mike Zunino was traded we heard stories that James Paxton likely would be the next one of the Seattle Mariners to be traded and it happened on Monday when they traded him to the Yankees.

There were reports the Mariners might be traded Paxton to the Dodgers or the Astros however it came down to the Yankees having the best offer. According to general manager Jerry Dipoto he talked to 2/3 of the teams in the major leagues about Paxton. He wanted to get the highest maximum trade for Paxton so it looks this was the best deal Dipoto could get. I am sure there were other teams he spoke to that may have had players better than the one they received back from the Yankees but they were not willing to do so. 

Paxton was eligible for arbitration and the words around the league he was probably going to cost the Mariners $9 million to retain him for one season. It wasn't the only reason to trade him but a good one anyway. Dipoto feels the Mariners ended up in the upper end of the major leagues but to compete for the playoffs and make the World Series he had to make changes. This is true just within their own division. The Mariners finished third in 2018 in the American League West behind the Houston Astros who won 103 and the Oakland A's 97. Although the Mariners had a good season overall with 89 wins they were three games below five hundred after the all-star game with a record of 31-34. Before the all-star break they had a record of 58-39. During the first half period they scored two less runs than they gave up. They played in a lot of one run games with a record of 36-21 in those games. The Mariners could have lost some of those they won if it weren't for closer Edwin Diaz. 

Speaking of Diaz there are those who feel the Mariners should trade Diaz as well since they don't think the Mariners no longer need a closer. I don't agree with those thoughts at all. Although the Mariners may not look like a better team going into next season I don't give up hope they will win more games than they lose. It doesn't mean I think they will 89 games this coming season but they could win 84 or 85 games. Although Paxton was considered the ace of the Mariners he only won 11 games last season for them and his highest total was 12 in 2017. Marco Gonzales had more wins than Paxton with 13. Of course Paxton has the capability to win more games like 16 to 18 games but has never been able to pitch in 32 games which he would have been able to do so if he didn't get hurt for a short period of time over his years with the Mariners. Of course I would like to keep Paxton around but it doesn't mean we could get more out of other pitchers.

The Mariners picked up two pitchers and an outfielder for Paxton without giving up another player as well. In the Zunino trade they sent Guillermo Heredia packing as well. This seems better to me far as value goes thought the Mariners did get two outfielders for Zunino and Heredia. The Mariners received Mallex Smith now the Mariners starting center fielder along with minor league outfielder Jake Fraley  who was a 2nd round draft pick by the Tampa Bay Rays 

Back to the Yankee trade the Mariners picked up the Yankees number one prospect in left handed pitcher Justus Sheffield along with right handed pitcher Erik Swanson considered the Yankees #22 prospect however could be ready sometime during the 2019. I am sure they will be given every chance to make the rotation during spring training.  I could see a rotation of Marco Gonzales. Mike Leake, Wade Leblanc , Felix Hernandez? and  Sheffield. 

Sheffield pitched in 20 games for the Yankees AAA team after starting the season with five games at double A. At triple A he had a record of 6-4 with an era of 2.56 throwing 88 innings. He had 36 walks which is a bit higher than we would like however did strike out 84 batters. At age 22 I am sure this would not be very unexpected and he does have a good upside.

Eric Swanson started the season at double A as well in the Yankee organization last season where he pitched in eight games before being promoted to triple A where he pitched in 14 games. He had an era of 3.86 with 14 walks and 78 strike outs in 72. So he had a better control than Sheffield though a higher era however he is three years older as well at 25. I am sure he won't be the pitcher Sheffield will be however he could still be valuable to the Mariners. 

The third player the Mariners received in the trade is Dom Thompson-Williams a 23 year old outfielder the Yankees drafted in the fifth-round in 2016. He spent most of the season in high single A Tampa for the Yankees where he batted .290 with 17 home runs and 65 runs batted in. I am sure we won't see him in Seattle for at least three years if at all at least they have another outfielder with potential. He is listed right now as the Mariners #14 prospect. 

Next will be see who will go next and who will come next as well. I wonder what catcher they are eyeing? 

Look at Mariners Hot Stove

When it comes to the Mariners since they traded Mike Zunino and Guillermo Heredia to the Tampa Bay Rays for center fielder Mallex Smith the biggest story was off the field when Dr. Lorena Martin who was released out of her contract as the Director of Performance by Jerry Dipoto in October came out on social media accusing Jerry Dipoto, manager Scott Servais and Director Player Development Andy McKay of racism and sexism. Major league baseball is now looking into the allocations. If there is any truth to the allegations than turnover of Mariner management would happen. Bench coach Manny Acta says he doesn't believe the allegations at all.

The Mariners hired their hitting coach this week Tim Laker  previously assistant hitting coach with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He takes over for Edgar Martinez who will go into a new role so he can spend more time with his family.

The Mariners added outfielder Braden Bishop out of University of Washington playing for AA Arkansas when he was hurt and was out for the season because of his forearm. The Mariners didn't want to lose him in the rule 5 draft so he was added to the 40-man roster which now stands at 33. This means to that he will be invited to major league camp however will start the season either at Arkansas again or with triple A Tacoma long as he is healthy.

The Mariners also signed three minor league players who are being assigned to Tacoma.  We will have to see what other moves and news the Mariners will come this week. Thanksgiving coming up this Thursday the moves will likely take place by Wednesday. We will have to see whether Jerry Dipoto will come up with another major trade or not. Stay tuned!

Seahawks defeat Packers after poor start

Seattle Seahawks had to come from behind to win Thursday nights game at home against the Green Bay Packers 27-24. The game started out poorly with Chris Carson fumbling the ball on the first play of the game then the Packers scored really quickly after that.

The Packers scored two touchdowns in the first quarter while the Seahawks kicked a field goal trying to get their offense going. At that point the Seahawks defense wasn't doing that much better either.

In the second quarter Doug Baldwin caught his first touchdown of the season though Russell Wilson over threw him at least once before hand. Chris Carson redeemed himself with a touchdown as well. So the halftime score was Green Bay 21 Seahawks 17.

The third quarter wasn't exciting at all since neither team scored a point. I have to say not a lot of fans were happy with Russell Wilson at that point. Of course he changed things in the 4th quarter.  The Seahawks did kick a field goal to make it a close game 21-20 before the Packers kicked one themselves to put the lead up to 24-20. Finally Russell Wilson directed a series where the  Seahawks scored a touchdown with just over five minutes remaining connecting to tight end Ed Dickson for the final score of 27-24. 

You compare Russell Wilson with the Seattle Mariners. He looks like he is starting out pitching like Felix Hernandez did this last season then in the fourth quarter he pitches like closer Edwin Diaz. Wouldn't it be nice if he could be going the whole game long however long as the Seahawks win that is what counts. The Seahawks now are 5-5 and they take on the Panthers in Carolina on November 25. They are able to rest over the weekend before getting back to practice next week. The Seahawks really need to win at least 4 out of the remaining 6 games to have any chance to get to the playoffs. It wouldn't be easy though they do play the 49ers twice along with Arizona Cardinals however they do go against the Minnesota Vikings and Kansas City Chief well as the Panthers in games outside the division. We must think positive though. Go Hawks. 

Thursday Night Football

The Seattle Seahawks take on the Green Bay Packers at Century Link Field Thursday night. This is a key game for both teams if they want to make the playoffs this season The loser will have a hard time making it. The Seahawks would have win at least five of their remaining six games if they lose this one to even have a shot. Even winning this game could still make it difficult to get in.

The Seahawks are expected to be without K.J. Wright The linebacker is shown as being doubtful. The rest of the roster is in pretty good health. Running back Chris Carson is expected to be in the rotation. How much he or the other running backs play depends on success. Last Sunday against the Rams rookie Rashaad Penny ran over a hundred yards and scored a touchdown. It sounds though Carson should start but I am sure Penny and Mike Davis will see some action as well. With three running backs having a good time when in the game they can spread out the time of using them. The question of Carson though can he stay healthy. We will see won't we.

It will be important the Seahawks defense do a better job than against the Rams. They need to stop the run as well along with  getting pressure on Aaron Rodgers or he will eat them up in passing and it will be a long nigh for the Seahawks.

The Washington Huskies return to action on Saturday against Oregon State after having a bye last week. It will be important the Huskies have a balance between the run and the pass. Next week will be the Apple Cup on Friday night in Pullman against the Cougars. Depending on the outcome this weekend that game could decide who goes to the Pac-12 championship game.

The Cougars will be playing Arizona this weekend before the big game. Again it will be important for them to win if they want to make the championship series after beating the Huskies in the Apple Cup. These two weeks will be important for both teams. 

Best to all three teams this week the Seahawks, Huskies and Cougars. 

Seahawks Now 4-5

Last week the Seattle Seahawks lost in Seattle to the Los Angeles Chargers 25-17. The game wasn't that close at all. Though the Seahawks tried to make a last second score to see if they could tie it.

Again this week playing the other LA team their division rival for the second time of the season who lost their first game of the season last week at New Orleans. The Seahawks wanted to see whether they could win after being so close in their previous game at Century Link Field in Seattle where they lost 33-31.

Playing this week in LA the game wasn't as close as the previous one though the score was less than a touchdown once again where the Rams beat them 36-31. The Rams looked like they ran over the Seahawks all game long though the Seahawks did a good job running the ball too. The Rams ended up running 149 yards with Todd Gurley going for 120 of the yards on 16 carriers and a touchdown. He looked like he could run at will though the Rams decided to pass the ball as well. 

Jared Goff passed the ball 39 times completing 28 for 318 yards and two touchdowns. The Seahawks did do some adjustments in the second half to make it an easier game for them to stay in it. The Rams led at half -time 17-14 after the Seahawks marched for two touchdowns in the first quarter. The Rams scored only a field goal in the 3rd quarter then the Seahawks came back for a touchdown to take a one point lead going into the 4th quarter. 

The Rams then scored a touchdown then the Seahawks kicked a field goal to make it 27-24. The Seahawks tried an onside kicked that failed and it seemed like the undoing for the Seahawks as the Rams scored again with a touchdown then missing a two point conversion.  The Seahawks were able to make another touchdown while the Rams scored a field goal. Russell Wilson tried to go after another miracle win at the end but it didn't prevail. 

The Seahawks are now 4-5 while the Rams are 9-1 and have pretty much sewn up the division title. For the Seahawks to have any real chance to make the playoffs they have to win at least 5-2 in their final seven games. They take on the Green Bay Packers this coming Thursday Night in Seattle. Another team competing to make the playoffs as well. The Packers beat Miami Dolphins easily 31-12 on Sunday so they have a record of 4-4-1. It will be important that the Seahawks win this game not only to stay close to the Packers but the Minnesota Vikings and Carolina Panthers who have solid leads ahead of the Seahawks though they don't lead their divisions either. Even if the Seahawks go 5-2 no sure thing they will make the playoffs anyway but certainly have a better chance.

The Seahawks were without Chris Carson in this game however first-round pick Rashaad Penny did run for 108 yards on 12 carriers and a touchdown.  Quarterback Russell Wilson was second in rushing and most of them were on planned carries instead of having to run away from defenders though he did do that to some extent as well. Russell had nine carriers for 92 yards and the other running back Mike Davis had 11 carriers for 58 yards. 

For the Seahawks to beat the Packers the offense has to play at least as good against them as they did against the Rams while the defense has to do a better job in both stopping the run and the pass. With only a few days off they don't have much time to prepare for a game where they can win. We just hope the Seahawks can turn things around after losing two games in a row. 

College Basketball Begins

College basketball began this week for the University of Washington. They won their opening game on November 6 against Western Kentucky 73-55. This game they started out slow however went on a good run in the first half and then again a couple good runs in the second half . On Friday they played the Auburn Tigers on the road but got dominated pretty badly. They started out slowly and never recovered. They lost to the #11 ranked Tigers 88-66. They hope to rebound against University of San Diego this coming Monday back home and then on Monday November 18 they will be on the road again this time against Santa Clara.

The Washington State Cougars start their season at home in Pullman against Nicholls State out of Louisiana.  Nicholls state has already played two games and are 1-1. This should be a good test for the Cougars to see where they plan to go.

In football the Huskies have this weekend off for a bye. They will play Oregon State next weekend followed by the Apple Cup against the Cougars The Oregon State Beavers haven't had a good season though they did a comeback against Colorado winning after being down by 31 points. The Cougars should be favored and they win the game then Apple Cup will be for who represents the Pac-12 North in the Pac-12 Championship the following week. The Cougars will be playing Colorado on the road so I am sure be a tough game since the Buffaloes will want to recover from the game against the Beavers but the Cougars should win.

In the NFL the Seahawks will be on the road in LA taking on the Rams. The Rams are healthier than the Seahawks and they are a ten point favorite. It is important for the Seahawks to find a way to win to make the playoffs. 

Zunino and Heredia Traded to TB

Reports are out for the Mariners first move during hot stove Mike Zunino and Guillermo Heredia will be traded to the Tampa Bay Rays for outfielder Mallex Smith. Each team will exchange minor league players as well.

This all reported after Zunino received the Wilson Award as the best defensive catcher in baseball. Jerry Dipoto is willing to make any trades he feels should improve the Mariners. Though he is a top notch receiver he hasn’t been able to do the same at the plate. He has been able to hit at least 20 home runs a season but his batting average has been around the .200 mark. In 2017 he did have a period where he hit well and batted in the .250 mark. If he was able to hit around that mark or somewhere between .200 and .250 like say .230 he would still be a Mariner.

Guillermo Heredia the Mariners felt was disposal as well since he hit .238 over the last season though he was close to .300 early on in the season. He showed he was really made to be a part-time player though he was among the best defensively especially in left field. If he would have stayed with the Mariners he would have platooned in left field with Ben Gamel and on occasion in center field.

Mallex Smith who is expected to be the center fielder for the Mariners had a good rookie season with the Rays. He previous had been with the Mariners for a short period like 77 minutes when they acquired Drew Smyly a couple years ago. The Mariners had picked him up from the Atlanta Braves before him along. He had a .296 batting average this last season with the Rays with a .367 on-base percentage. Also he stole 40 bases as well. He could be what the Mariners were hoping for Dee Gordon in center field well as the lead-off hitter since he is able to walk. If he is the lead-off hitter for the Mariners they may move Mitch Haniger to clean up in place of Nelson Cruz. We are not sure at this time whether the Mariners will have Cruz return.  This move will show Dee Gordon will be back at second base if they don’t trade him away. This is the case Robinson Cano will be at first base along with spending time at dh. Another question does it mean the Mariners will trade Ryon Healy. There was talk Kansas City was interested in Healy. If Healy does return with the Mariners he could spend time at first base and dh as well.  The question to is where does this leave Daniel Vogelbach. Will he be the dh against right handed pitching or he be traded as well.

Right now the Mariners will have one catcher in David Freitas so they will need to pick up another catcher. The question to will they sign a catcher in free agency or pick one up in a trade. Right now they don’t have anyone else ready in the minor leagues. They could pick up a catcher that shares the spot with Freitas as well. In this case I would like to see them get a left handed hitting catch. They did have one in Chris Herrmann before releasing him. So the questions do continue for the Mariners and they could be answered real soon.