Mariners Lose Again To Astros

Not a whole lot to say the Mariners lost again to the Houston Astros final 7-4.

The Mariners scored two runs in the first inning; however, the Astros responded with three runs of their own in the first inning. The positive note at least the Mariners scored again in the first inning.

The Mariners didn’t score again until the fourth inning when Dylan Moore drove Tim Lopes in; however, the Astros responded with a run of their own in the fourth inning and then another in the fifth inning.

The Mariners got their final run on a home run by Daniel Vogelbach his 30^th of the season. I wonder how many are surprised by Vogelbach’s home run total. He was a question mark going into the season. The Mariners only had one hit the remaining of the game; a total of four hits.

The Mariners had seven batters reach base because of walks but couldn’t take advantage of it.

Dan Altavilla came in the game for Tom Milone in the sixth inning. There were two runners on base with no outs. He was able to get the first two batters he faced out but gave up a hit to score two runs for the Astros. He did look good for the second game in a row except he couldn’t put the final batter away. If he pitches this way the rest of the season he will get another good look in spring training.

The Mariners have 12 pitchers right now in the bullpen. Most of the 12 will have a chance to make the ball club next season though they are only going to keep eight.  Wade LeBlanc now in the bullpen his contract ends and I would be surprised if the Mariners re-sign him.  The Mariners may decide to trade or release a few of the other relievers. It is hard to tell right now. With Felix $25 million off the table, I am sure the Mariners will try to sign a free agent starter and possibly a reliever or two as well.

We do know Jerry Dipoto will do some trading though not like the last off-season I suspect. At least not the same impact anyway. How they trade will depend whether Dipoto feels 2020 is another rebuilding season or a player or two can make them a contender.  One thing we do know the Mariners have work ahead to compete against the Astros.  Go M’s.