Seattle Mariners Game Recap: M’s Avoid Sweep with 3-2 Win

Apr 22, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher J.A. Happ (33) throws against the Houston Astros during the first inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

J.A. Happ Sparkles in the Emerald City

J.A. Happ has been the second best starter in the Mariners’ starting rotation thus far in 2015. I never would have anticipated that, but he has really performed well in a Mariners’ uniform. Happ was impressive tonight, allowing 2 runs on 8 hits across 7.1 innings. The 32-year-old southpaw struck out 5, and did not issue any free passes.

I can proudly say that I highlighted Happ prior to the start of the game as my “Pick to Click.” I predicted he would pitch 7 innings of 2 run ball, and he exceeded my expectations tonight. The Mariners have 6 quality starts this season, and Happ has 3 of them. Happ is now 1-1 with a 2.61 ERA across 20.2 innings pitched in 2015. He has tallied 9 strikeouts, and has issued just 2 walks.

Tonight’s win was the first for Happ as a member of the Mariners, and if he keeps pitching like he has been, he will tally plenty of W’s this season. The lefty will get the ball next for the Mariners on April 28th in Texas against the Rangers.

Next: Brad Miller Stays Hot