The Seattle Mariners secured an 8-6 victory against the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday at T-Mobile Park, overcoming a late-game rally by their opponents. The win marked a significant moment for the Mariners, bringing their season record to 62-53 and placing them nine games above .500 for the first time this year. With this victory, Seattle remains two games behind the Houston Astros in the American League West and holds a narrow one-game lead over the New York Yankees for the second AL Wild Card spot.
In a post-game interview, Mariners manager Dan Wilson praised his team’s early offensive performance. “Really nice ball game tonight. To get that second game — big for us. I thought offensively we did a lot of great things, especially doing them early,” he said. The Mariners scored seven of their eight runs in the first two innings, capitalizing on a relentless start against the White Sox pitching.
The scoring began with a powerful 450-foot home run by first baseman Josh Naylor. This performance added to Naylor’s impressive contributions since joining the team, as he recorded two home runs and two stolen bases in the same inning for the second consecutive game. “I just want to take every opportunity and try to make the best of it,” Naylor stated, emphasizing his commitment to helping the team succeed regardless of his batting order position.
In the bottom of the second inning, catcher Cal Raleigh contributed to the scoring with a two-RBI single, followed by a three-run homer from center fielder Julio Rodriguez. This barrage gave the Mariners a commanding 7-1 lead. The substantial offensive output provided starting pitcher George Kirby with ample breathing room. Kirby faced a bases-loaded situation in the third inning but managed to escape unscathed, ultimately completing six innings with nine strikeouts, two walks, and two earned runs on five hits.
Kirby reflected on his strategy, stating, “They’re gonna be swinging, so I don’t have to throw it in the zone. As long as I make it look like a strike, I should be able to get a swing or a swing-and-a-miss off it — some weak contact.”
As the game progressed, the White Sox rallied in the seventh inning, scoring three runs against reliever Eduard Bazardo. Designated hitter Mike Tauchman hit a two-run homer, while second baseman Lenyn Sosa added a solo home run. Despite the White Sox’s efforts to close the gap, Rodriguez managed to drive in an insurance run with a sacrifice fly, extending the Mariners’ lead.
In the ninth inning, the White Sox continued their offensive push with a solo home run from right fielder Michael Taylor, marking the first home run surrendered by All-Star reliever Andres Munoz since May 30. Although Munoz faced challenges, including walking two batters, he ultimately secured his 26th save of the season, preserving the Mariners’ win.
Looking ahead, the Mariners aim to complete the series sweep against the White Sox in the finale scheduled for 1:10 p.m. PT on Thursday. Logan Gilbert will take the mound for the Mariners, while Shane Smith is set to start for the White Sox.
As the Mariners continue their push for the postseason, the team’s performance in the coming games will be crucial in determining their playoff aspirations.
