Bryce Miller's gem vs. Astros could end up being perfect Mariners comeback story

Every team needs to have at least one guy with an undying will to win. Considering the Seattle Mariners' current position in the Wild Card standings, that sentiment runs even deeper for this club. As Seattle makes a last-minute push for the final spot in American League playoffs, Bryce Miller understood his importance to the team heading into the final full week of regular season contests.

It was unveiled after his start on Monday night in Seattle's 6-1 victory over the Astros that Miller's back was bothering him. He was battling some stiffness, but that was nowhere near enough to keep the 26-year-old off the mound in a pivotal series against their divisional rival.

Miller was spectacular, logging his 10th scoreless start of the 2024 season in an outing where everything seemed to be right for him despite some discomfort with his back. This victory also kept Houston from clinching the AL West title at the time.

Seattle has a 12-10 record in September, which is not particularly ideal for a team that wants to be in the postseason. However, considering what Miller was dealing with in his impressive start, it could provide a spark for the rest of the Mariners to close out the regular season with conviction. Entering Wednesday, the Mariners have four games left and sit 2.5 games out of the Wild Card, facing the Astros one more time before hosting the A's for a three-game slate.

The Royals and Tigers are tied at 83-74 for the last two Wild Card spots while the Twins are a half-game up on the Mariners. They need all the help they can find while going 4-0, which isn't out of the question. It will not be easy, but having a pitcher like Miller willing to do whatever it takes to give his team a chance should bleed into the mentality of his teammates.

Miller might have one more outing left in the tank, whether it be Saturday or the season finale on Sunday. He's twirled 18 quality starts this year, and it is almost certain that Seattle will need one more from him as every contest matters from here on out.

If they can grab a win over Houston on Wednesday and roll into the weekend with conviction, the M's could pull off the unthinkable. Hopefully Miller's mentality plays a role when all is said and done.