Seattle Mariners Game Recap: Miller, Ackley Lead M’s to Victory in 11th

Apr 11, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Dustin Ackley (13) hits a solo home run in the top of the third inning off of Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Sonny Gray (54), not in picture, at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports

Brad Miller and Dustin Ackley Make Seattle’s Lineup Very Dangerous

Robinson Cano, Kyle Seager and Nelson Cruz received much of the press for the M’s heading into the season, but Brad Miller and Dustin Ackley have carried this team during the first 5 games. Miller and Ackley both provided the M’s with key hits on Saturday, and the Mariners would not have won today had it not been for their performances.

Apr 11, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Seattle Mariners shortstop Brad Miller (5) hits a single that drove in Seattle Mariners first baseman Logan Morrison (20) in the top of the eleventh inning against the Oakland Athletics at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports

Brad Miller has been brilliant this season, hitting .333 with 1 home run and 2 RBI’s. His double today showed how he has matured as a hitter. Last year Miller would have rolled over on the Jesse Chavez knuckle curve, but today he went with the pitch, slicing it beautifully down the left field line. The Mariners shortstop has been equally as impressive on defense, making difficult plays look easy. He saved today’s game by firing a relay throw from behind second base to the plate to get a sprinting Ben Zobrist in the bottom of the 10th inning.

Dustin Ackley has provided plenty of pop in the bottom half of the Mariners’ lineup thus far. The AckAttack hit his second home run of the season this afternoon. The dinger gave the M’s an early lead, and some much needed confidence after last night’s drubbing. His defense is also improved this year, and for the first time in his career he looks comfortable in left field. Ackley was arguably Seattle’s best hitter last season in July and August, and he appears destined for a career year in 2015.

Next: Looking Ahead