It began with a first-inning double by Victor Robles, followed by a second-inning ground-rule double from Josh Rojas, and then a triple to left by Dylan Moore.
Jorge Polanco added to the momentum with a fourth-inning home run, and two innings later, Luke Raley hit a three-run homer. These five extra-base hits were crucial for a Mariners team desperately needing an offensive resurgence. This offensive burst helped Seattle secure a 6-4 win over Houston on Sunday, ending a five-game losing streak and preventing a sweep by their division rivals.
Previously, the Mariners had a ten-game lead over the Astros but are now tied with them, a team that has dominated the American League West for the past six seasons.
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Sunday’s victory was vital in calming a fan base on the brink of panic, given the Mariners have lost 17 of their last 26 games and eight of their last nine series. This win marked just the fourth time in 22 games that Seattle managed to score at least six runs, a rare offensive outburst for a team boasting one of the best ERAs in MLB.
Luke Raley, who broke a 0-for-21 streak with his homer, emphasized the importance of this offensive spark, stating:
“We need it desperately. We just need to keep showing up and working hard.”
However, the game also saw the Mariners placing first baseman Ty France on irrevocable outright waivers, signaling potential changes ahead. Despite his struggles this season, with a WAR of -0.1 and an OPS of .664, France’s departure would be significant.
Manager Scott Servais highlighted the need for consistency, stressing that the team must build on this performance and start winning series. The game also included a scare when center fielder Julio Rodriguez injured his ankle after colliding with the wall, although he is listed as day-to-day.
Looking ahead, the Mariners have three home games against the struggling Angels, while the Astros face the equally struggling A’s. Bryan Woo, who allowed two runs in 5 2/3 innings on Sunday, appears to be back in form, providing a hopeful sign for Seattle.
While this series against the Astros wasn’t ideal, Sunday’s win offers the Mariners a chance to stabilize and potentially turn their season around. Now, it remains to be seen if they can sustain this momentum and make a strong push for the playoffs.
