Seattle Mariners Gameday Preview at Texas
Apr 8, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson throws out the first pitch to Seattle Mariners starting pitcher
Felix Hernandez(34) prior to the game between the Seattle Mariners and the Los Angeles Angels at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
Initial Thoughts:
In just 13 games this season, the Mariners have already been shut out three times. Yes, this is a young team with a lot of unproven bats, but we can only hope the process of gelling and consistency start sooner than later.
Tonight’s game looks to be a pitcher’s duel, with both aces on the mound for the Mariners and Rangers. The King faces off against Darvish, who has only started once so far this season after starting the year on the DL.
Game Details:
Seattle Mariners (7-6)
Texas Rangers (7-7)
Time of game: 5:05 PM Pacific. Location: Arlington, Texas.
MATCHUPS:
Pitching:
Mariners: Felix Hernandez (3-0, 2.11 ERA) vs. Yu Darvish (1-0, 0.00 ERA).
EDGE: Felix. Even though Darvish was dominant in his first 15 innings off the disabled list, King Felix has been dominant in three games, winning his first three starts for the first time is his career. Guys like Mike Trout and Raul Ibanez have been singing his praises, saying he’s got the best stuff they’ve ever seen from him. If Felix gets one run of support, this game may be over.
Lineups:
Mariners:
Corey Hart DH
Of note: The Mariners managed only 7 hits last night against the Rangers and their converted reliever. Again, this team keeps going from hot to cold at the plate. Some consistency will need to develop if this team wants to keep itself in most games it plays.
Rangers
Of note: The top six in the Rangers order hammered the M’s last night with 10 hits and 5 RBI. If they want to have similar production tonight they’ll have to get to Felix early, otherwise he is going to settle in and have himself a day.
Keys to Mariner Victory:
1) The King being the King. There isn’t much else to say. Felix is one of the best pitchers in baseball, and even though his less than sterling record against the Rangers is a factor, he needs to show again tonight why he got paid the big bucks.
2) Can this lineup score runs? After a potent first week of the season, the bats have been quiet and inconsistent. These young guys need to find their balance and rhythm, and produce behind Felix for a chance at the W.
Other Notes:
Taijuan Walker was scratched from his rehab start yesterday, citing that he was unable to get himself loose before the game. No other information was disclosed, so we can only hope this is a one time, temporary setback.
Final Thoughts:
Tonight’s game will be a pitchers duel at it’s finest. Expect lots of strikeouts and ferocious fist pumps. Whoever scores first might just win this one.
Score Prediction:
Mariners 1, Rangers 0.