Mariners News: M’s Open Three-Game Set at Angels

Jun 15, 2015; San Francisco, CA, USA; Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Taijuan Walker (32) pitches during the first inning after the game at AT&T Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports

I’ve been saying this for three weeks: That “this” series could be the Mariners season. Thus far, the M’s have done just enough to stay afloat and keep me from officially burying this season. However, they still remain nine games out of first place.

Also, don’t look now, but the Oakland A’s are doing what the Oakland A’s do. They have tied the Mariners and the M’s could officially be in last place by the end of the night.

With the unbalanced schedule at the beginning and end of the seasons, all you really need to do is stay within striking distance, but this series with the Angels feels like a huge one for the Mariners. The Angels are currently tied with the Rangers for second in the division at five games out and a winning series for the Mariners could bring them closer to both teams. A sweep, or a series loss, could continue to spell doom for the 2015 Mariners.

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The Pitching Matchups:

Tonight: Matt Shoemaker (4-5) vs. Taijuan Walker (5-6)

Saturday: Garrett Richards (7-5) vs. JA Happ (3-4)

Sunday: Hector Santiago (4-4) vs. Felix Hernandez (10-4)

Obviously the M’s luck out a bit, not facing CJ Wilson in the series, who carved them up in the first series of the season, and I’m still bitter about it.

Prince Tai gets the ball tonight and he’s looked great of late. His fastball command, strike-throwing ability, and velocity have all been good. Check out this nugget:

Walks really hurt Tai earlier in the season, but this has been the good Tai.

We need it tonight.

Go M’s.

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• What if the Mariners traded FOR Tyler O’Neill this time?
• Mariners starting pitching is being overlooked by MLB

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