Gilbert Improves Mariners Win

Logan Gilbert went six innings on
Monday afternoon Memorial Day
as the Mariners went on to win
6-5.

Gilbert went further then he had

in his previous outings. In six

innings he gave up only two runs,

on five hits, walked one and struck

out five. Gilbert has those kind of

stats he will win a lot of games for

the Mariners. 

As a number one draft pick I am

sure the Mariners hope he can 

become the ace of the staff in

a few years. He certainly has the

capability to do so. 

Oakland scored a run in the third

then the Mariners had a big inning

in the fourth where Kelenic scored

on a Kyle Lewis hit after walking.

Donovan Walton hit his first major

league home run with two runners

on base. 

The A's scored another run in the

5th inning to make it 4-2 Mariners

In the 8th inning the A's ended up

tying the game.

The game went into extra innings.

The A's were able to drive in a run

to take 5-4 lead however in the bottom

of the 10th Tyler France drove in

Jack Wakefield who had come in 

because Kyle Lewis was hurt on a

hit over his head in the top of the 9th.

We hope Lewis won't be out long. 

That tied the game and then Tom 

Murphy hit a single into right field

to score France with the winning run.

Marco Gonzales is scheduled to start

on Tuesday night against the A's. He 

will be on a pitch count so could go

three or four innings then it will be

up to the bullpen to do their job

for the Mariners to win. The Mariners

are now 28-27 and would be two and

a half games behind the A's. Go M's.

Mariners Sweep Rangers

It wasn't easy task however the Seattle
Mariners did sweep the Texas Rangers
beating them Sunday 4-2.

The Mariners got good pitching once

again this time from starting pitcher

Yusei Kikuchi who went six inning

pitching a no-hitter. He gave up a

hit in the sixth and then a single

and a home run to Joey Gallo

in the seventh inning. Yusei was

lifted with two outs with the

Mariners being ahead 4-2.

Besides the two runs and three

hits Yusei he walked one and 

struck out five. Kikuchi has had

to be the ace of the Mariners since

Marco Gonzales went on the injured

list late April. Gonzales is expected

to start Tuesday against the Oakland

A's. It is nice to see Kikuchi is

finally meeting up to when the 

Mariners signed him before the

2019 season. 

Ty France continues to do well

since coming back off the injured

list. He has gotten at least one hit

in each game since last Tuesday.

On Sunday he drove in three of

the Mariners four runs. The Mariners

scored in the first inning and then

two more runs in 3rd inning when

France hit a double.  Kyle Seager

hit a home run in the fifth inning

for the Mariners final run.

The Mariners bullpen did a fine

job surrendering only one hit in

two and one-thirds innings. The

Mariner have five starters and nine

relievers. When Gonzales returns

likely one reliever will go. They

could make moves in the bullpen

on Monday as well we will see.

Drew Steckenrider should

return soon followed by Kendall

Graveman depending on covid

symptoms. 

The Mariners start a three-game

series at home again the Oakland

A's on Monday afternoon. Not

stated yet who will start the game.

The Mariners are now have a

27-27 record; three and half

games behind the A's. If the 

Mariners sweep the A's it 

certainly will make an interesting

look in the American League West.

The Astros who are in second place

behind the A's will be at home 

taking on the Boston Red Sox

in a four-game series. It will be

interesting because the Astros

play better at home then on the

road and the Red Sox are coming

into Houston. The Red Sox play

better on the road. 

The Mariners sweep the A's they

will be half a game behind them

however the Astros could be in

first place or it will be a very tight

between all the three teams.

The Angels are behind the Mariners

by two and half games after splitting

four game series against the A's

winning the last two in Oakland.

They take on the San Francisco

Giants in a two-game series before

the Mariners go to Anaheim to play

a four-game series next Thursday

thru Sunday. The Angels should still

be without Mike Trout.

 

Mariners Go For Sweep

Saturday night the Mariners beat the Rangers
for the third time in this series winning 3-2.
They have actually won eleven straight at
home against the Rangers. Also, they have
won 12 games this season by one run.

JP Crawford hit a home run in the seventh

inning followed by Haniger in the 8th. It 

was a good thing because Rafael Montero 

struggled again on the mound giving up a

 run to the Rangers in the top of the 9th. 

The Rangers had the tying and going ahead

runs on base but Rafael got out of it.

Justin Dunn went five and two-thirds innings

giving up only two hits and one run while

walking two. He struggled somewhat in the 

fourth inning however some questionable

calls on balls by the home plate umpire.

Daniel Zamora went an inning and a third

in his first outing for the Mariners recorded

the win. He gave up no hits and struck out

one. Paul Sewald pitched the 8th without

giving up a hit before Montero.

Will Vest was reactivated off the injured 

list however Erik Swanson who has done

a good job was put on the injured list.

Casey Sadler got news he went on the

60-day list. Shed Long Jr has gone on

a rehab assignment with Tacoma. He

has been out all year. Won't be surprise

if he stays at Tacoma when rehab time

is up.

News came out that veterans like Russell

Wilson won't go on OTA's for the Seahawks.

To be honest I don't really care since this

is baseball season for me. As long as he

is ready to go in September all that matters

to me. 

Mariners back on track

The American League West has been about
the same for all the clubs in the last ten games.
No one is hot or cold except the Rangers only

because the Mariners have been them in the

last two games.

The Oakland A's are even at 5-5 while the

Astros, Angels and Mariners are 4-6. The

Rangers are 3-7.

For the Mariners having Ty France back in

the lineup is making a big difference. Helps

out the bottom of the batting order.  On Friday

the Mariners beat the Rangers for second

straight game  3-2. Not a big explosion however

did win the game. France got another hit and

drove in a run.

The Mariners are right in the middle of the

division two and a half games ahead of the

Angels with the Rangers a game behind them.

France back in is helping out the bottom of

the order. It would be nice to get more production

there but it is what it is.

Tom Murphy had another hit though didn't

produce a run at least he is starting to hit

this season. Kyle Lewis is going now having

his second home run in two games to allow

the Mariners to win. Kelenic is still not hitting

in the leadoff spot though he walked to score

a run. I am sure there are those who think he

should be moved down in the order. Do the

Mariners put Haniger back at leadoff. Not

a bad idea however where should Kelenic

bat instead is the question of the day.

Sheffield had a good day going five innings.

It would be nice if he could go six to help

out the bullpen. He gave up the two runs

on six hits, walked two and struck out one.

The bullpen went with four guys giving up

only two hits coming in the 8th and the 9th.

Erik Swanson gave up a hit in the 9th inning

however he was able to get his first save on

the season. 

Justin Dunn goes Saturday night. He continues

to pitch well as he has done recently the Mariners

have a good shot making it three in a row over

the Rangers. Now we just need the offense to

become more consistent. Go M's. 

Flexen Looks Good

In his previous performance Chris Flexen had
probably his worst outing of the season. Thursday
against the Texas Rangers in the opening game
of the four game series Flexen had his best night
of his career.

Flexen ended up going seven innings only giving

up three hits, no runs, walked one and striking out

six. I am sure we will see Flexen continue going 

up and down in his outings for a while but who

knows he could be a solid third pitcher in the rotation.

Speaking of pitching word is out Marco Gonzales 

may start on June 1 against the Oakland A's coming

off the injured list. Most likely he will only pitch 

three or four innings in his first outing depending

on his pitch count. It will be nice to see the Mariners

back to a full six-man rotation since they decided

not to go with a five-man rotation while he has 

been out..

There is word out Jake Fraley who is on rehab 

assignment for Tacoma should be activated during

this current home stand. Fraley looks to be the

fourth outfielder playing when Haniger needs a

day off and goes to dh or the same goes for Kyle

Lewis and Jarred Kelenic. Most likely Lewis 

would dh when he isn't in centerfield while 

Kelenic have the whole game off depending

on how he is doing at the plate at the particular

time. He could be in the dh role as well.

Ty France continues to do well at the plate 

having two more hits on Wednesday while

scoring one of the three runs in the seventh

inning.  Tom Murphy and Jacob Nottingham

hit back to back home runs in the third inning

ending a 0-0 tie then France had a single in

the seventh then Tom Murphy who was 2-2

for the day plus a walk got on base. After a

walk to Nottingham Jack Mayfield recently

called up hit a double to score France and

Murphy. With two outs Mitch Haniger got

a hit to score Nottingham.  Final score was

Seattle 5 Texas 0.

It was really nice to see the bottom of  the

batting order contribute to  winning of the

game. Six thru nine scored all five runs and

drove in four. A good game by those guys.

Evan White is working out however not

sure on his return.

Justus Sheffield starts Friday night. It will

be nice if he can have a similar outing to

Flexen. Go M's. 

A's Win Mariners Take On Rangers Now

Wednesday afternoon the Oakland A's won
the final series game over the Mariners 6-3.

The Mariners had taken the first two games

of the series so we will take 2 out of three

for sure.

Not a big surprise since the Mariners were

using the bullpen. Robert Dugger who had

pitched well in his last opener this time

went three and a third innings giving up 

five hits, three walks and surrendering five

runs. Not good for sure. Wyatt Mills came

in for him went one and two-thirds innings

surrendering three hits and a run. Yohan

Ramirez recently called up finished off the 

game going two innings without a run.

He and Mills were sent down to Tacoma with

lefties Hector Santiago and Daniel Zamora

taking their spots. I expect to have fresh arms

out of the bullpen. Sam Deplane was designated

for assignment for Santiago to be on the 40-man

roster. Zamora who recently was picked up by

the Mariners off of waivers from the Mets was

already on the 40-man roster.

Mitch Haniger continues to hit well like he should

be in the all-star game. He had two hits the only

player on Wednesday doing so including a double.

Ty France had another hit for the third game in a

row since being reactivated on Monday. He played

second base instead of first on Wednesday. The

Mariners have a better chance of winning with

France back in the lineup that is for sure.

Jarred Kelenic played right field for the first time

as Haniger was at dh. To keep Haniger healthy 

the Mariners are having him at dh at least once

if not twice a week. Donovan Walton was in left

field. With Haggerty out Walton is the primarySi

utility player. Though France can play three infield

position he isn't considered a utility player in that

fashion since he plays everyday. 

Jose Godoy was behind  the plate again. I believe

the Mariners like his defense especially framing

pitches. The problem continues the Mariners

aren't getting much offensive production out of

the catchers position. Seven thru nine in the order

continues to be a problem. It would be nice if

they could get decent production out of one of

the three on occasion.

Chris Flexen takes the mound Thursday night

against the Rangers. He didn't pitch well in 

his last outing. We hope a bit better this time.

Word is out that Marco Gonzales could be back

early next week in the rotation. That would be

good since the Mariners continue want to use

a six-man rotation this season despite the fact

they have had use an opener since calling up

Logan Gilbert who is in the fifth spot.

The rest of the four game series looks like

Justus Sheffield on Friday, Justin Dunn on

Saturday and Yusei Kikuchi who left in the 

seventh inning on his start on Monday will

be able to go on Sunday. No word yet who 

will pitch the opening game against the Oakland

A's at home on Monday. It most likely be

Logan Gilbert which means Gonzales if 

ready could pitch on Tuesday followed by

Flexen on Wednesday to finish that series.

Go M's. 

Mariners Make It Two

Tuesday night might not have been the best
but the Mariners were able to squeak out a
victory. They beat Oakland the second
straight night 4-3. Mariners and the A's
have an afternoon game Wednesday then
come home to play the Rangers in a four
game series.

Logan Gilbert made his third start and 

went four innings. Gilbert is on a pitch

count so why he didn't go further. Gilbert

gave up two runs on four hits. He struck

out four as well without a walk. On the TV

broadcast mentioned Gilbert was throwing

too many fastballs; must rely on his breaking

pitches specially the slider more often. Maybe

we see that in his next outing.

The Mariners used four relievers on the day.

Only JT Chargois gave up a run in the 8th

inning. Lefty Anthony Misiewicz finished 

off the 8th with a walk and a strike out. He

still doesn't look right and Mitch Haniger 

saved the day with a great running catch.

JP Crawford continues hitting well having

three on the day and playing stellar defense.

Ty France had a couple hits. Interesting the

Mariners are playing better ball with him

back in the lineup. Jarred Kelenic had a

couple hits as well. He is hitting the ball

hard. After having Sunday off he is doing

quite nicely.

The Tacoma Rainiers are 10-8 heading to

Reno to finish the Month of May. Cal Raleigh

is hitting .394 in his last eight games. We

hope to see him in Tacoma in a month or

so.

Julio Rodriguez is hitting .325 for Everett

with five home runs and 15 runs batted in.

The Aquasox are tied in first place with a

record of 13-6. Emerson Hancock has started

three games going nine innings with 0.96

era. I am sure they will start increasing his

innings and pitch count. George Kirby has

started two games going eight and two-thirds

innings with a 3.12 era. Keep an eye on these

guys throughout the season. 

Mariners End Losing Streak

It is so nice after being swept twice
to start a new series with a win especially
against a team in your division and are
on the top of the division as well.

The Mariners won 4-2 over the Oakland

A's Monday night. Jarred Kelenic walked

to lead off the game and scored on a 

double by Mitch Haniger. 

Kyle Lewis hit a two-run homer in the

third inning and Kelenic hit a home run

in fifth for all the scoring. It would have

been nice if the Mariners could have added

on but the important thing they won.

Ty France was back playing first base

and hit a double. He made it to third 

base where he stranded. It was good

to see him. He was batting sixth.

Kikuchi did a good job on the mound

going six plus innings giving up four

hits including a home run in the third

inning. Kikuchi had to leave the game

with a sore back. We hope he will be

okay.

Rafael Montero came in took care of

the seventh inning however got into

a little trouble in the 8th giving up a

run. Erik Swanson having an excellent

job out of the bullpen since being called

up  walked a batter then struck out

three. Middleton seems to be the closer

until Graveman gets back gave up no

hits and struck out two batters for his

third save on the season. 

With France back in the lineup we hope

this leaves some stability for the Mariners.

France presence may help the Mariners

win some more games. All we need is

Kikuchi to be okay and see Marco Gonzales

return. 

Logan Gilbert starts Tuesday night. Be 

nice if he can do well on his pitch count

and extend his innings. The Mariners do

have Gilbert on a pitch count so the better

he does the longer he last. Also, works good

for the bullpen too. Go M's.  

Mariners In Oakland After Sweep

The Seattle Mariners were swept for the
second series in a row. The San Diego
Padres have been a hot team including
having the best record in the major leagues.
The Padres are the first team to win 30
games.

The Padres had won six out of seven games

before the Mariners came to San Diego.  The

Mariners with injuries has made it difficult

for them to win.

At least good news Ty France was activated

from the injured list. Unfortunately Sam 

Haggerty took his spot. France is in the 

lineup Monday night against the A's as 

the Mariners play a three game series.

We hope he can get back to his hitting

since the Mariners could desperately use

it. 

I was hoping Jarred Kelenic would be 

moved down in the lineup however he

is still leading off. With France at least

the lower half of the lineup which has

been troublesome will get a lift. France

will be  batting sixth as he gets back to

playing ball. Monday night Jose Godoy

will be making his second start behind

the plate followed by Jacob Nottingham

at dh and Donovan Walton at second base.

I hope Walton gets the opportunity to play

a lot of second base to see how he can do.

The Mariners need to see Walton has a 

future in Seattle as a regular or a utility

player. He can play shortstop and third

base as well.

This will be the Mariners first look at the

A's on the season. Mark Canha will leadoff

for the A's playing left followed by Chad

Pinder at second. Ramon Laureano in

centerfield with Matt Olson first baseman

in the cleanup spot. Jed Lowrie returns to

the A's as the dh. He is followed by Matt

Chapman at third base. The last three spots

are catcher Sean Murphy, rightfielder Stephen

Piscotty and former Texas Ranger Elvis 

Andrus at shortstop. Outside of a few players

not an impressive lineup but the A's always

find a way.

Yusei Kikuchi takes the mound Monday after

getting an extra day off. We will see how it

goes for him and the Mariners. The Mariners

can use a positive outcome from Kikuchi to

end the six game losing streak. Go M's. 

Mariners Take It On the Chin Again

Another tough loss to the Padres as
the Mariners lost 6-4. I guess we
should expect it against a good team
like the Padres.

Justus Sheffield looked good for

the first four innings giving up 

only one run however he crashed

in the fifth by giving up five runs.

This put the Mariners down 6-1.

They were able to get a run in 

the eighth and two in the 9th.

Had the tying run at the plate

in Kyle Lewis but couldn't do

it.

The Mariners actually had nine

hits and the four runs better than

any time recent. In fact may have

won a game or two with four runs.

Mitch Haniger scored the Mariners

first run with another home run

making it his 13th on the season.

Also, he has 31 rbi's. Likely be

the Mariners all-star rep.  I 

wonder if he will be this year's

Austin Nola when it comes to

making a trade. 

Jarred Kelenic continues to 

struggle at the plate. Is it time

to move him down in the order

or back to triple-A. The question

who plays left field. Though

Taylor Trammell is doing well

is he the answer or best to leave

him in Tacoma as well. Jake 

Fraley is doing rehab assignment

or go out and pick up a veteran

outfielder. Not sure but Dipoto 

needs to make a move.

Yusei Kikuchi was expected to

pitch Sunday however he isn't

feeling well the last couple of

days so now he is going to start

on Monday in Oakland. Justin

Dunn who pitched well in his

last outing will start Sunday.

After one day Robert Dugger

and Anthony Misiewicz were

back in the bullpen when nothing

found with the contact tracing.

Neither one pitched on Saturday

but should be available Sunday.

Erik Swanson who has done well

coming out of the bullpen pitched

one inning no hits though walked

two batters and Paul Sewald went

two innings giving up to one hit

while walking two and striking out

three. Both guys good to be in there

until Drew Steckenrider and  Will

Vest can get off of covid restrictions.

It will be nice if the Mariners can

win the final game of this series

against the Padres. It could be 

difficult if they lose and go into

Oakland being swept. Go M's. 

Friday Not a Good Day for Mariners

To begin with the Seattle Mariners were
beaten badly Friday night 16-1. Chris
Flexen only went one and two-thirds
inning giving up 10 hits and 8 runs.

This by far was Flexen worst outing

on the season. I wonder whether he

is now pitching at the level he is at

after being in Korea baseball last 

year. I hope he can rebound the 

Mariners need him to use up some

inning. 

News came out before the game 

happened that four players went

on the injured list because of 

covid-19. We don't know they

actually have it but they were 

in contact with someone who

did. We could find out more 

on Saturday as well.

The Mariners lost four relief 

pitchers which is half of the

bullpen in Drew Steckenrider,

Will Vest, Robert Dugger and

lefty Anthony Misiewicz. Drew

has pitched well for the Mariners

after getting off to a poor start.

Vest has pitched more than 

anyone out of the bullpen. Dugger

recently called up has had some

good outings well as not so good.

Misiewicz had a good start of

the season though trouble in 

recent times. One thing for sure

they are better than most of the

pitchers replacing them.

Keynan Middleton was reactivated

from the injured list. The best of

those coming onto the roster to 

fill in the bullpen. Three other 

pitchers activated were Wyatt

Mills, Yohan Ramirez, and lefty

Aaron Fletcher who will fill in

for Misiewicz as the short lefty.

Mills gave up four runs on four

hits in the fifth. This is the third 

time he is on the Mariners and 

has shown he isn't ready for the

majors yet. 

Middleton pitched in the game

ahead of Mills. Ramirez and 

Fletcher both pitched as well.

Not a lot of success there either.

The Mariners recalled an infielder

as well in Eric Campbell from

Tacoma. I don't even recall him

being on the Tacoma roster and

don't know a lot about him. It

does look like he does have 

experience playing first base.

Speaking of first base catcher

Jacob Nottingham played first

base. Campbell pinch hit in the

game having one of the Mariners

four hits on the day. 

Haniger got a hit then  driven

in by Seager in another hit in

the first inning. The fourth hit

was by JP Crawford. For the 

most part they are the only

ones hitting. Hopefully a new

day with better results. Go M's. 

Mariners Made Moves

The Seattle Mariners made some roster
moves on Thursday before heading to
San Diego to take on the Padres on
Friday.

The Mariners reacquired catcher Jacob

Nottingham off of waivers from Milwaukee.

The Mariners had Nottingham briefly when

he was put on waivers before then traded

him back to Milwaukee because former 

Mariner Omar Narvaez went on the injured

list. The Brewers needed another catcher 

so there went Nottingham. On Wednesday

Omar was reactivated off the injured list

so here is Nottingham once again. I wonder

how many Mariner fans wish Narvaez were

still on the team with how the team has 

been hitting and the catching situation not

so good anyway.

The Mariners optioned catcher Luis Torrens

to Tacoma. Last September he looked good

in the trade from the San Diego Padres but

he hasn't had a good season so far batting

under .200 plus his defense especially lately

hasn't been good either. We hope he can get

his defense back in order in Tacoma.

Speaking of catching Tom Murphy hasn't 

done well at the plate either. Outside of 

some home runs he has hurt worse than

Torrens but his defense is better the reason

he is still around. Besides the reappearance

of Nottingham the Mariners brought up Jose

Godoy as a catcher as well. He was hitting

.310 in limited role backing up Cal Raleigh.

I am sure there are those who may wonder

why Raleigh wasn't called up. I think they

will want to give him additional at bats 

before calling him up.

Jose Marmolejos was designated for 

assignment by the Mariners on Thursday

as well. I saw one Mariner fan being

socked by his release. I wasn't at all

since he was batting around .140 and

he doesn't play very good first base.

The question though who is going to

play first base until Evan White is back.

We will see Friday night since there is

no first baseman on the roster. I would 

not be surprised to see Nottingham 

at first. They have three other options

would be utility players Sam Haggerty,

Jack Mayfield, and Donovan Walton.

One of those three will be at second base

with Dylan Moore on the injured list.

Had Moore been active he would be

the top choice at first base I expect.

The Mariners designated pitcher Brad

Lail for assignment as well. Lail was

recently called up to the Mariners from

Tacoma. He pitched in the last two 

games for the Mariners without much

success so not a big surprise. He maybe

back in Tacoma if he makes it through

waivers as I expect. 

Saw Thursday night Jake Fraley in the

lineup for the Rainiers. I am sure he is

now on a rehab assignment. It will be

interesting to see whether he will be

called up at some point or he will

stay in Tacoma when the rehab 

assignment is over. 

There is a good possibility that Cal

Raleigh might play some first base

with the Rainiers when Torrens is

at catcher along with designated 

hitter. He was at dh when Godoy 

was behind the plate. What the

Mariners have plans for Godoy at

this point is in question. He could

be there as the third catcher while

playing on occasion if Nottingham

is behind the plate.

Chris Flexen will be on the mound

Friday night against San Diego. 

Justus Sheffield is scheduled on

Saturday and Yusei Kikuchi on

Sunday. The Mariners should have

a good shot in this series if the M's

bats can come alive. 

The Mariners will face the Oakland

A's in a three game series in Oakland

beginning on Monday. Justin Dunn

and Logan Gilbert should start two 

of those games with the bullpen doing

a third game. The Mariners return home

next Thursday to Face the Texas Rangers.

I expect Flexen  will start the first game

of the series. 

No news yet when Marco Gonzales will

be available to be activated. He is expected

to throw off the mound again on Friday. If

things go well he may do a couple rehab

starts. The Rainiers are in town thru Tuesday

so he could start in one of those games. Go M's.

 

Mariners Swept

After taking three out of four from Cleveland
the Mariners were swept by the Detroit Tigers.
Interesting since Cleveland is a better team.

Outside of the middle game where the Tigers

no-hit the Mariners they had a good chance to

take the other two games. The problem continued

though they still hit the blasted ball right now.

This is especially true in the bottom of the order.

Wednesday night the Mariners lost 6-2. Logan

Gilbert in his second start and loss he went two

and two-third innings. Gilbert gave up four hits,

three runs and walked a couple batters well as 

striking out two. Gilbert going to get his lumps

however still valuable pitching for him to get

used to the batters.

Will Vest came in and surrender a couple runs

himself in an inning and a third. Vest on the 

most part has pitched well like most of the 

bullpen despite some injuries to the bullpen

well as the starters. Vest has pitched in 19

of the Mariners 44 games which is just under

half the games. Not bad for a rule 5 pickup.

JP Crawford continues to do well at the plate

for the most part well as good defense at 

shortstop. Crawford had two of the Mariners

five hits. Crawford is second on the team in

hitting behind Haniger. Look forward to Ty

France getting back to bolster the offense.

Dylan Moore went on the injured list so the

Mariners brought up Jack Mayfield made his

first start at second base. He went hitless in

his first game. How much Mayfield plays 

will be depend on Donovan Walton and Sam

Haggerty as well. Walton didn't play in the

game while Haggerty was at dh. Haggerty

will be in right field when Mitch Haniger is

given the day off in the field and is at dh.

Mayfield bats right handed so likely to

see him at second against lefties though

Haggerty is a switch hitter. Walton is a

left handed hitter. I am sure who plays 

the most may come down to who can 

hit. 

The Mariners have Thursday off then 

plays a three game series in San Diego

followed by a series in Oakland as well.

See how that all goes. Bats please come

alive the pitchers and fans are wishing

for you.  Go M's.  

Mariners No-Hit Again

I thought the Mariners had a good
chance to add more victories against
the Detroit Tigers at home but it
isn't meant to be. We hope they are
able to salvage a win on Wednesday
afternoon before heading to San Diego.

The Seattle Mariners were no-hit by

Detroit Tiger right hander Spencer 

Turnbull on Tuesday night. This is

the second time the Mariners have

been no-hit this season. Unless the

Mariners offense comes alive it 

won't be the last.

Currently the Mariners top of the

lineup is doing the job for the most

part over the season. Only JP Crawford

has done the job in the bottom half 

this after a slow start. You look at 

Tuesday's lineup not player from

six through nine are hitting over

.200. On occasion one of them 

has an effect in the game. The 

Mariners can't rely on One thru

five to do all the work.

We hope that Ty France can be

back soon. He can help out along

with JP Crawford hitting fifth

or sixth in the lineup. 

Justin Dunn was able to go five

and two-thirds innings giving up 

two runs on five hits, walking 

only two and striking out nine.

In many cases he would have

won the game.

The Mariners still had the chance

to win when Dunn left the game.

Drew Steckenrider did a fine job

going one and one-thirds innings

without giving up a hit and striking

out one. The final two relievers

not so lucky giving up three runs

putting the game out of reach even

if the offense had been able to get

a hit.

Logan Gilbert will make his second

start Wednesday night for the end of

the series. We hope not only will he

do a good job the offense can come

alive and score some runs. Go M's.

Mariners Offense Sputters Again

The Mariners lost once again to a team
that doesn't have a good record on the
season at home of all places. The Detroit
Tigers are 15-26 including 6-14 on the
road. The Tigers have done well lately
winning six of their last ten games.

The Tigers beat the Mariners 4-1. Yusei

Kikuchi got off to a rough start throwing

like 25 pitches in the first inning. Kikuchi

was able to strike out the last batter not to

be scored on. Unfortunately Kikuchi gave

up two home runs in the second inning.

He was able to weather the storm and go

six innings saving the bullpen from having

to throw more innings. 

The Mariners only run of the game came on

a homer by catcher Tom Murphy in the 8th.

Like the Mariners and much of baseball

Murphy isn't doing much at the plate besides

hits home runs.

The Mariners had only four hits in the game.

Jarred Kelenic finally was able to muster another

hit now batting .182. I wonder if he should be

moved down the lineup or will that hurt his

confidence. I have no answer there. Haniger

continues to be the Mariners best hitter having

one of the four as well. Jose Marmolejos had

the fourth hit in the game. Not sure why he is

at first base most of the time now that Evan

White is on the injured list. It looks like White

will be out for a while. 

The Mariners pitching is keeping the team 

in the games though they have had a lot of

injuries along the way. Wonder whether the

Mariners can stay around the .500 despite

injuries to the pitching staff along with the

everyday lineup not doing well at the plate

besides with Ty France being out as well.

France should help when he gets back. 

The Mariners have two games remaining

against the Tigers. It would be nice to win

both games or at least split. The Mariners

have Thursday off before taking on the

Padres in San Diego this coming weekend.

The Padres have a winning record besides

going 7-3 in their last ten games. Padres are

second place a half game behind the San

Francisco Giants in the National League West.

The Mariners will take on the Oakland A's on

the road in a three-game series next Monday

thru Wednesday then come home to play four

games against the Texas Rangers then finishing

May against the A's at home. The Mariners begin

June finishing up the series against the A's then

go on the road to Detroit and Cleveland. 

How the Mariners do over the next two weeks

will tell us a lot. News came out Mike Trout 

was taken out of Monday's game for the Angels.

The Angels have enough issues being 18-22. 

Trout left the game limping with a strain to his

right calf. The Angels will know more Tuesday

how serious it is.

Want to know about Marco Gonzales. He has been

throwing lately to Ichiro. Might go out on a rehab

assignment. The Tacoma Rainiers will be home 

this Thursday through Tuesday so Marco could 

pitch in a couple of outings. The minor league

teams play six games at home in a row before

going on the road for six this season. Update on

the Rainiers they are currently 5-6 with one game

left in Salt Lake City Tuesday night. 

It must be the air Taylor Trammell is hitting .636

in five games for the Rainiers while in Salt Lake

City with four home runs and 14 rbi's. Have to 

see he comes down to reality when the Rainiers

are back home on Thursday.  

 

Mariners Take Series Over Cleveland

The Seattle Mariners beat the Cleveland
Indians Sunday 3-2. The Mariners were
able to beat Shane Bieber Cleveland's ace.
He only lasted four and two-thirds innings
giving up all the runs by Cleveland. Bieber
threw over one hundred pitches so why he
exited early.

The Mariners were used by the bullpen 

throughout the game. Robert Dugger was

the opener and he went three innings without

giving up a hit and walked one batter. He 

was followed by Paul Sewald who was called

up the same day as Jarred Kelenic and Logan

Gilbert. Sunday was his first appearance for

the Mariners so he had several days rest. Paul

pitched two innings giving up two hits and no

runs. He walked one while striking out four.

Paul has an unusual delivery so hard for the

batter to pick it up. 

Cleveland scored their two runs in the sixth

inning off Rafael Montero who continues

to struggle on the mound. Only one of the

runs was earned because of an error by 

Donovan Walton who was playing third

base in place of Kyle Seager who was at

dh for the day. 

The Mariners continued to struggle at the

plate where the team had only five hits.

Fortunately they were able to count for

three runs enough to beat Cleveland because

of the bullpen. Mitch Haniger continues 

hit well having two double that allowed him

to score two of the runs. Kyle Lewis had

two hits as well driving in Haniger on one

occasion while JP Crawford who had the 

only other hit drove in Haniger and Seager

who had walked.

Erik Swanson continues to do well on the

mound pitching a scoreless eighth inning

followed by Kendall Graveman who record

the save giving up one hit and striking out

one. With Montero struggling on the mound

Graveman now is the primary closer. I wouldn't

be surprise to see Swanson in the role to if the

Mariners need to give Graveman a day off.

As far as transactions on Monday the Mariners

recalled right handed pitcher Brady Lail from

Tacoma. Lail did pitch time last season for the

Mariners. They sent down infielder Jack Mayfield

to Tacoma. Mayfield recently called up but never

made an appearance for the Mariners. Also the

Mariners designated right handed pitcher Domingo

Tapia for assignment. Tapia made several appearances

for the Mariners though he has been in Tacoma.

Braden Bishop who was designated for assignment

on Thursday by the Mariners was claimed by the

San Francisco Giants on waivers. Not a big surprise

as his brother is in the Giants organization.

The Mariners begin a three-game series against the

Detroit Tigers at home on  Monday night. Yusei

Kikuchi pitching like the pitcher the Mariners thought

he would be when they signed him out of Japan will

go in the first game. Justin Dunn will follow Kikuchi

on Tuesday and then Logan Gilbert will make his

second start for the Mariners. 

Mariners Make It Two In A Row

After losing the first game of the series on
Thursday to the Cleveland Indians now the
Mariners have won two games in a row. So
at worst they will break even in the series.

The Mariners are now even again at 20-20

and in third place three games behind the

Oakland A's and half game behind Houston.

Justus Sheffield pitched a good game going

six inning giving up five hits, two runs, two

walks and two strikeouts. The Mariners scored

five runs before Cleveland did in the sixth

inning off Sheffield. The Mariners scored two

more runs in the bottom of the eighth when 

Donovan Walton in his first start at dh hit

a triple. Cleveland had a home run in the 

ninth making the final 7-3. This was all

without Jarred Kelenic having no hits on

the night.

The Mariners are starting to get some action

out of the bottom of the order. Dylan Moore 

hit a two run home run though his only hit 

of the game and Walton the triple for two 

more runs. Though not many hits they are 

being productive.

In other local sports news the Seahawks had

there season come out this week. They open

against Indianapolis  on the road and Tennessee.

This week they have had mini camps for the

rookies. The veterans around the NFL wanted

the rookies to stay away from camp but they

came to camp anyway. Don't blame them at

all they have to think about their future.

Mariners Even Series

The Seattle Mariners finally ended their
losing streak. Can't remember exactly the
number though I do know they lost both
to the Dodgers and the opening game at
home to Cleveland.

Evan White and Ty France will be out 

for a little while going on the injured list.

Jose Marmolejos defense was such I am 

not sure how much he should be at first

base. The Mariners brought up Walton

and Mayfield. Though  they are mid-

infielders I would give them a shot there.

If not them Dylan Moore has played some

first base. 

Dylan Moore is starting to heat up having

two hits Friday night including a double.

He made a jumping catch as well so first

base should be good.  Walton and Mayfield

both have played second. Walton has been

hitting well for Tacoma while Mayfield came

off the injured list when called up so I would

give Walton the first shot.

Speaking of shots Jarred Kelenic hit a massive

home run in the third inning with a runner on

base. This was his first major league home run

as  well as hit.  Kelenic had two other hits both

doubles. He went three for four in the game.

Though he went hitless on Thursday his batting

average is .375. We hope to  see more hits from

him since the lineup really needs him right now.

Before I forget the Mariners won 7-3. Chris Flexen

went five and two-thirds innings. Flexen looked 

better in this game giving up five hits and one run

which happened in the fifth inning. Had one walk

and no strike outs. Kendall Graveman came in to

get the final out of the sixth inning well as pitching

the seventh. He was followed by Erik Swanson 

doing a fine job giving up one hit and striking out

one in the eighth inning. In limited opportunities

Swanson has a 1.04 era. 

Cleveland scored two of their three runs in the top

of the 9th off of reliever JT Chargois. Rafael Montero

had to come in to save the game with two runners 

on base. He got the hitter on four pitches. The 

Mariners didn't really want to use Montero though.

Chargois threw almost all sliders which the Indians

figured out. I hope he has other pitches to throw or

go back to Tacoma. 

The catching position neither Tom Murphy or Luis

Torrens are hitting that well. In fact Torrens is hitting 

better than Murphy who has a .190 average. They

have both played even amount. According to manage

Scott Servais Murphy hits better against lefties so 

we will see him there more often, however, still will

be determined by the matchups.  Future catcher Cal

Raleigh is still getting his feet wet in Tacoma however

we will see him at some point this season especially

if Murphy and Torrens keeping hitting the way they

are. Who would go anyone's guess it looks like.

Justus Sheffield is scheduled to pitch on Saturday 

night. Hopefully pitch better than his last outing.

Sheffield like Dunn are still on the learning curve

though Sheffield isn't walking batters like Dunn is.

Shane Bieber last year's Cy Young winner goes for

Cleveland on Sunday. Right now the Mariners don't

have the starter announced yet. I would go with one

of the relievers to start. Erik Swanson has done well

as the opener so he could do it again though he pitched

one inning Friday night. 

Those who maybe wondering Julio Rodriguez hit another

home run Friday night for Everett in their win. Also,

George Kirby first round pick the year after Logan Gilbert

went five innings without giving up a hit or run by walking

one batter. It was his second outing on the young season.

Both Rodriguez and Kirby will likely move up in the farm

system this season. Wouldn't be surprised they are in double

A in the middle of June if not before then.  Go M's. 

 

Kelenic and Gilbert make debut

Friday night Jarred Kelenic and Logan Gilbert

made their debut at T-Mobile Park. Neither we
impressive in the game itself. Gilbert gave up
two home runs along with five hits and four
runs. He didn't walk a bat and struck out five.

The bullpen did an excellent job only giving

up one hit in five innings to give the Mariners

a chance to win. Unfortunately the Mariners 

were about to muster two hits in the game.

The two hits were JP Crawford and Dylan 

Moore who had a home run giving the 

Mariners two runs in the 8th inning. Other

words the Mariners were being no-hit before

then by Zach Plesac. 

Jarred Kelenic was put in the lead off spot

for opening game. I am sure they will see

how he does again on Friday night. Plesac

is a fine pitcher where most of the Mariners

had a hard time. 

Bryan Shaw who was with the Mariners for

a short time last season is now back with

Cleveland as the closer. To bad the Mariners

were not able to get out of him the Indians

are this year. It was Shaw's first save of the

season however he does have a 1.93 era but

has given up more walks than hits.

Chris Flexen takes the mound Friday night.

He struggled last time though he did go

seven innings. It will be nice to go same 

innings with a better results. The Mariner

hitters need to produce. We hope Kelenic

will  help in that regard.

The Seattle Mariners had a busy day besides

Logan Gilbert and Kelenic being added to

the roster. They signed three minor leaguers.

Wyatt Mills and Aaron Fletcher were outrighted

to Tacoma. Pitcher Paul Sewald contract was

selected by the Mariners from Tacoma. Sewald

didn't pitch in Thursday's game.  Also

outfielder Taylor Trammell was sent to Tacoma

and as I expected Braden Bishop was designated

for assignment.

Taylor Trammell had a big game in his first 

outing for Rainiers in a 15-5 win. He was

4 for 5 in the game including a three run

homer. In all he scored two runs while driving

in four runs. The Rainiers had eighteen hits

on the night. 

Everett Aquasox had a big game as well winning

15-1 over Tri-City. The Aquasox had ten hits.

Helped out was 12 walks. Julio Rodriguez had 

his second home run of the young season. Aquasox

have a record of 7-2. Last year's number one pick

Emerson Hancock went two and two-thirds innings

in his second start of the season. I am sure they

are keeping an eye on him. 

Before Friday night's game Evan White and Ty France

both went on the ten day injured list. Infielders Donovan

Walton and Jack Mayfield were recalled from Tacoma.

Way injuries are happening the whole Tacoma Rainiers

roster will be up.

Dodgers Sweep Mariners

For the first time on the season; at least
I think so anyway the Seattle are under
.500 losing Wednesday night 7-1.

The Mariners offense again wasn't there 

with  only two hits. Ty France who has  

been  in a slump for at least May had

one of the hits and  Dylan Moore who

has been in a slump most of the season

had the other one. In fact Moore's hit

drove in the Mariners only run of the 

game.

Julio Urias pitched his second outstanding

game against the Mariners. His first 

outing in April he gave up on one hit so

could say the Mariners doubled their

production. In this game they only struck

out six times compared to eleven in the

first game. 

Justin Dunn may have had one of his 

worst starts going three and one-third innings

giving up three runs. Will Vest who came

in for him didn't do any better giving up

three runs as well. Vest has been a surprise

so having a bad game here we hope doesn't

happen to often.

Logan Gilbert is scheduled to make is major

league debut Thursday night in the opening

game of the four game series against the

Cleveland Indians. Also, Jarred Kelenic is

expected to make his major league debut

in left field. Most likely Taylor Trammell 

will  be sent down to triple-A Tacoma to

make room on the roster.  The Mariners 

will have  to make room for both Gilbert

and Kelenic on the 40-man roster as well.

I expect Braden Bishop will be designated

for assignment. If he clears waivers he will

be re-assigned to Tacoma. As far as a pitcher

goes most likely someone in the minors as

well unless they go with an infielder  instead,

however, not many choices there either.

Go M's. 

Mariners Blow Game Late

For most of Tuesday night's game it
looked like the Mariners would beat
the Dodgers leading 4-1 going into
the seventh inning.

Yusei Kikuchi went six and one-third

innings giving up three runs with two

of them coming in the seventh. Kyle

Seager's baby brother drove in both

runs. Why do the Mariners especially

allow his brother to do it. One thing

for sure dishonors us older brothers. lol.

Kyle did have a home run along with 

two by Mitch Haniger which gave the

Mariners the four runs. Haniger now is

tied for the lead in home runs with ten.

The Dodgers scored three runs in the

eighth inning including a home run off

of Rafael Montero. It was Montero's

fifth blown save already. You wonder

if the Mariners need to go in another

way far as saving games. They are

you Graveman in the role as well but

we know he can't pitch every game.

The problem though the Mariners don't

really have anyone to pitch late in 

games until Middleton comes back off 

the injured list. I guess could try Will

Vest however he is play an important

role already. I suppose he and Montero

could switch spots until things are

squared away with Montero.

The Tacoma Rainiers lost in ten innings

8-2. As I was at the game I can tell you 

the game was well pitched on both sides

for nine innings. The score was tied at

1-1. Both teams had opportunities to

score with runners on base several times

however, the pitchers knuckled down to

get the third out.

I am sure people still wondering about

Jarred Kelenic being called up for 

Thursday's game. One thing I can tell

you he was playing left field on Tuesday

night after playing center field in the

previous five games. The Rainiers have

Wednesday night before playing a six

game series in Salt Lake City starting 

on Thursday. So sign will be whether

Kelenic goes with the team to Salt Lake

or not. I have the feeling not.

Update on Julio Rodriguez Tuesday night

he had three hits including a home run for

the Everett Aquasox at home.  It was his

first home run of the season and he came

short of hitting for the cycle.  Rodriguez

leads the Aquasox in hitting with a .345

average. See how long until he moves

up the system.  Go teams!