Pregame notes: Kendrys scratched

The Mariners play game two of a three game series with Houston tonight at 7:10. Hisashi Iwakuma won his team-best seventh game of 2013 yesterday, and the Mariners go for the series win tonight. Aaron Harang looks to rebound from an atrocious last start as he battles Bud Norris.

Zunino gets the call

Mike Zunino, the Mariners first-round draft pick just one year ago, was called up from AAA Tacoma this afternoon. Brandon Bantz was designated for assignment in his place. Zunino is hitting .238 with 11 home runs and 43 RBI so far this season and is without doubt the Mariners’ future catcher. Many feel his promotion came too soon, however.

Morales scratched from lineup

Kendrys Morales will not play tonight for the Mariners, as the stiffness in his lower back flared up again pregame. Morales left Saturday’s game against the Yankees with similar irritation, but has started the past two nights at first base since then. Alex Liddi will replace Morales in tonight’s lineup and bat eighth. The Mariners will need to hope Morales’ injury isn’t a serious one, since he is their leader in RISP average and their best all-around bat.

Mariners could see all-time low attendance tonight

The Mariners’ game at tonight unfortunately coincides with the US men’s National Soccer Team World Cup qualifier against Panama at Century Link Field. As a result, the Mariners could see an even bigger attendance drain than they usually would see on a Tuesday night against the Astros. Here is tonight’s lineup:

1. Chavez RF
2. Ryan ss
3. Seager 3B
4. Ibanez LF
5. Morse DH
6. Franklin 2B
7. Saunders CF
8. Shoppach C
9. Liddi 1B