Mariners embark on essential road trip

The Mariners are coming off a "Good Vibes" homestand in which they went 4 and 2 against the Miami Marlins and Chicago White Sox. The two series had some interesting headlines, such as holding the MLB's leading hitter, Luis Arraez, hitless, George Kirby, Logan Gilbert, and Bryce Miller throwing quality starts, and Jarred Kelenic breaking out of a two-week slump in a big way.

Now the hometown team readies for three-game sets with the New York Yankees (39-33) and the upstart Baltimore Orioles (44-27). This road trip marks a significant opportunity for them to make up ground in the wild-card chase, as both teams are ahead in the standings. The AL East gauntlet is challenging, but the Yankees are playing without Aaron Judge, and their offense has come down to earth since he hit the injured list (.205 BA).

As for Baltimore, the series in Camden Yards is always tough sledding, but a rejuvenated Teoscar Hernandez might carry the Mariners to a series win. The 19 strikeouts yesterday were telling, as the current roster has a lot of swing-and-miss. The Dominican slugger's recent adjustments to his approach (.383/.442/.681) and superstar Julio Rodriguez hitting up the middle and to right field is just what the doctor ordered, which might stabilize the lineup.

Manager Scott Servais had an interesting quote after the win on Sunday focusing on the team stacking series wins. That is where this team is right now. If they can find more contact in the lineup and continue to deliver top-notch pitching, they could come out of New York and Baltimore victorious. Now is the time to make a run. Do they have it in them? We'll find out soon enough.