Mariners vs Astros: Can Seattle kick Houston while they're down?

Mariners vs Astros: Pitching Matchups

Friday, May 3rd @ 5:10 PM: George Kirby vs Ronel Blanco
Saturday, May 4th @ 4:15 PM: Logan Gilbert vs Framber Valdez
Sunday, May 5th @ 1:10 PM: Bryce Miller vs Hunter Brown

You'll remember seeing Blanco's name everywhere from his first start this year, when he went out and threw a no-no against the Blue Jays. Then, he threw one-hit ball through six innings against the Rangers. He hasn't been that good since then, but he has still been doing darn well with a 3.06 ERA across his last three starts. He has had some walk issues this season, walking 14 through 32.2 innings. The Mariners have done well at increasing pitch counts, so let's hope that continues.

In the second game, we have the Ace matchup with Gilbert going up against Valdez. I believe he's currently their best starter, with Verlander still being a stud but obviously nearing the end of his career. (Side note, im insanely happy we don't have to see him this series). Valdez was out for a couple of weeks, but looked back to his normal self against Colorado. He walked six hitters in his opening start, and then has zero walks in two starts and 12.2 innings since.

In the finale, we see the weak-link of the rotation in Hunter Brown. He's sporting a 5.70 FIP but a 9.78 ERA on the season, in large part due to not making it out of the first inning against the Royals last month while giving up nine earned runs. It's one of three outings in which he gave up five or more runs, and he has allowed 51 baserunners through 23 innings. Massive opportunity here for the lineup to end the series on a high note.