Cardinals Take Series in Seattle

The Seattle Mariners were looking to win the series this week against the St. Louis Cardinals at home, however, things changed quickly.

After winning 5-4 on Tuesday, the Mariners looked like they would take the series leading 2-0 going into the 9^th inning on Wednesday, however, the bullpen melted while the Cardinals scored five runs  to snatch the game away from the Mariners.

Thursday afternoon the Cardinals took care of business winning 5-4. The Mariners made the game close once again but could not hold off St. Louis. JP Crawford continued to hit well having a solo home run in the first inning then driving in a run later.

The Cardinals tied the score in the 3^rd inning with a home run then the Mariners took a two-run lead in the bottom of the third inning, however, the Cardinals on another home run this time a two-run shot tied the game in the fourth, however, Tim Beckham hit a solo home run in the bottom of the fourth to give the Mariners a 4-3. Unfortunately it was the last time the Mariners scored a run. The Cardinals scored two more runs in the 7^th inning.

Again the blame could be put on the bullpen, however, there were a couple balls that were hit just beyond Dee Gordon. I would have thought Gordon could have gotten to the balls but I am sure the Mariners had the shift on. The Cardinals scored at least two if not three runs because of the shift.

All five runs the Mariners gave up were recorded to Tommy Milone although Matt Festa came in giving up a hit that allowed the Cardinals to score the two runs in the seventh inning. The positive coming out of the game was the relief pitching of Dan Altavilla who looked like the pitcher the Mariners wanted him to be. He pitched the 9^th inning giving up no hits and striking out a batter giving the Mariners a chance to win. Right now it looks like Altavilla has his control under way which could help the Mariners the rest of the way.

The Mariners acquired another pitcher on Thursday. They picked up Matt Wisler from the San Diego Padres for cash considerations. Wisler had been Dfa’d by the Padres a few days earlier. He looks like another reclamation project for the Mariners. He has been used in starting and relieving in the major leagues. Most recently he has been used primarily in relief. It would be nice if the Mariners could help him out like they have Austin Adams.

The Mariners now take on the Oakland A’s over the weekend just before the all-star break. I am sure everyone is looking forward to having a break.  The Mariners will start the series with Yusei Kikuchi going Friday followed by Marco Gonzales on Saturday. The Mariners haven’t announced who will pitch Sunday; however, I expect it will be an opener before Wade LeBlanc comes in the second inning.  Anyone’s guess who will start on Friday against the Angel’s down in Anaheim after the all-star break.  Go M’s.