Seattle Mariners Gameday Preview Versus the Rangers

Welp, the Mariners went typical-Mariner last night and lost 2-0 to a no-name pitcher who was made to look like a Cy Young finalist.

But that game is over now– thank God– and the M’s still hold a 1/2 game lead over the Detroit Tigers for the 2nd Wild Card spot in the American League.

Can the Mariners get back to their winning ways tonight at Safeco?

Game Details:

Seattle Mariners: 71-59. Last 10: 6-4.

Texas Rangers: 51-79. Last 1o: 4-6.

Game Time: 7:10 PM. Location: Seattle, Washington. Safeco Field.

MATCHUPS:

Pitching:

Seattle Mariners LHP James Paxton (3-1, 2.20 ERA) v. Texas Rangers RHP Nick Martinez (3-9, 5.13 ERA)

Edge: Paxton. Paxton lost his first ever Major League game his last time on the mound, and he needs to bounce back tonight and get his command back as the Mariners desperately need his arm as the push for the playoffs intensifies. Martinez has been sub-par most of the season– but last night only proves that the Mariners are apt to make the worst pitchers look like aces.

Lineups:

Mariners:

Austin Jackson 8

Dustin Ackley 7

Robinson Cano 4

Kendrys Morales DH

Kyle Seager 5

Chris Denorfia 9

Logan Morrison 3

Chris Taylor 6

Jesus Sucre 2

Of Note: the Mariners were held to just 4 hits in last night’s game after having exploded for runs in Boston. This offense has a knack for going dormant, the question will be whether or not they can wake up sooner or later in this critical time of the season.

Rangers:

Daniel Robertson 8

Elvis Andrus 6

Alex Rios 9

Adrian Beltre 5

J.P. Arencibia 2

Adam Rosales 3

Michael Choice 7

Robinson Chirinos 2

Rougned Odor 4

Of Note: It’s not as if the Rangers were tattooing the ball last night either. They managed only 7 hits, but they pushed two runs across and ran Roenis Elias from the game after 5 innings. They’ve struggled so much this year with the injuries from floor to ceiling, but they can still play spoiler at Safeco with their professional bats.

Final Thoughts:

Expect the M’s to get back on track tonight as the sweet scent of the playoffs keeps them hungry AND motivated. Paxton will come out firing, and the Mariners will find their bats once again, maintaing their lead in the Wild Card picture.

Score Prediction:

Mariners 4, Rangers 2.