NOTE: This game is currently scheduled to start in a delay. See the “Game Information” section for updated info.
The Mariners are seeking to take the series today. After an explosive game one and a calmer game two, the Mariners will turn to George Kirby today to take the series. After a fairly up-and-down season, Kirby has more recently settled into a solid groove, giving up just four earned runs over his last four starts and never going under six innings. Coming off the heels of a 7-inning, 3-hit
game against the Orioles, Kirby will look to keep the hot streak going against a tough Mets lineup. Francisco Lindor will be leading off, and he had two home runs in game one, followed by the always dangerous Juan Soto, who, after a rough start to the season, seemed to settle back into his perennial MVP form. They are both followed by the Polar Bear, two-time home run derby champ Pete Alonso. Despite that, the Mets have had a rough go of it recently, dropping 8 of their last 10 and falling further behind the Phillies in the NL East. It’s possible, or even likely, that a hot Kirby can catch a slumping team on the back foot and carry that momentum into the rest of this road trip next week, when the Mariners face a tough team in the Phillies.
Lineups
After a tough time last night against Nolan McLean, making his MLB debut, the Mariners’ lineup will look to get back on track tonight against Clay Holmes. Josh Naylor is returning for his second game after taking a seat due to illness. Since being acquired from Arizona at the trade deadline, Naylor has quickly established himself as a key part of the lineup and has been sorely missed any time he has to miss a game. Another name that needs to get back on track is Randy Arozarena. Randy has been slumping badly through the month of August, slashing a pedestrian .213/.294/.328 over his last 15 games. This team is missing a certain amount of flair and swagger without Randy hitting well. Hopefully, today can be a good chance for both Naylor and Arozarena to get back into the swing of things and push this offense forward the rest of the season.
Tonight, the Mariners will face Clay Holmes. The 32-year-old righty has had a solid run for the Mets so far this season, bringing a top-end sinker sweeper combo to face a dangerous Mariners lineup. Holmes has had a lot of success keeping the ball on the ground and letting his defense play behind him. It will be on the Mariners to put the ball in the air and take advantage of the sometimes suspect Mets outfield defense.
Game Info
First Pitch: 4:10 pm PT / 7:10 pm ET
TV: ESPN / ESPN2
Radio: Seattle Sports (710 AM) and Mariners.com / ESPN Radio
NOTE: Due to a heavy rainshower in Williamsport about two hours before game time, this game will start in a delay. Tim Booth reports the hope is to get the game started around 4:40 – 5 PM Pacific.
Today In Mariners History
1997 – Jay Buhner becomes the first Mariner three consecutive 30+ home run seasons. His 30th blast of season also gives the club a team-high of 13 straight games with a home run.
2009 – Seattle signs #1 draft pick (#2 overall pick), OF Dustin Ackley from UNC-Chapel Hill.
