Series Preview: Mariners vs Astros – Can Houston Take the Series?

The Houston Astros are set to host the Seattle Mariners in a pivotal four-game series. As game 17 of 52 unfolds, Houston looks to gain ground in the AL West, but faces a tough challenge against a Mariners team that has historically dominated them. This series is crucial for Houston’s playoff aspirations, as they currently sit second in the division.

This preview breaks down everything you need to know: pitching matchups, game times, team standings, and expert predictions. Will the Astros defy history and pull off a series win, or will the Mariners continue their dominance? The series could significantly impact Houston’s postseason chances.

Here’s what’s inside: Game times and starting pitchers, a look back at the last Mariners vs. Astros series, team standings and playoff predictions, and a fan poll on the series outcome. Stay tuned to see if the Astros can turn the tide against their rivals.

Game Times and Starting Pitchers

The series kicks off with an exciting pitching matchup:

• Thursday, 7:10 PM CT: George Kirby (season debut) vs. LMJ (0-1, 7.88)
• Friday, 7:10 PM CT: Emerson Hancock (1-2, 6.21) vs. Ryan Gusto (3-2, 4.65)
• Saturday, 3:10 PM CT: Bryan Woo (5-1, 2.65) vs. Framber Valdez (3-4, 3.57)
• Sunday, 1:10 PM CT: LM Castillo (4-3, 3.20) vs. TBD

All eyes will be on LMJ as he seeks to improve his performance, while Kirby makes his highly anticipated season debut. Gusto and Valdez will aim to continue their solid seasons, and the Sunday game adds an element of mystery with Houston’s TBD pitching decision.

Historical Context and Series Implications

A sweep is essential for the Astros to surpass the Mariners this weekend. Historically, only the Los Angeles Angels have fared worse against Houston. The Mariners hold a 128-91 advantage, even after Houston’s sweep in the 2022 ALDS.

Despite Houston’s potential in this series, they currently hold the number two spot in a surprisingly weak AL West. As it stands, the Astros wouldn’t make the playoffs if the postseason began today. The Mariners, , and teams from the AL Central are more likely contenders.

A Look Back: Last Time Mariners Met Astros

The last series between Houston and Seattle took place from April 7-9, with the Mariners winning two of three games. Houston’s lone victory came on April 8.

In that game, Houston secured a 2-1 win in 12 innings, with Ryan Gusto earning the victory in relief following a strong quality start by Framber Valdez (six innings, two hits, no runs, one walk, eight strikeouts). Victor Caratini’s RBI-single in the 12th inning drove in the winning run. Cam Smith opened the scoring in the seventh with an RBI-triple, while Luke Raley responded for the Mariners with an RBI-single.

Honestly, just talking to the vet guys, they help me deal with stuff like this. Obviously it’s part of the game, everybody has to deal with it. — Cam Smith, on dealing with a mini-slump to open the season

See highlights from that game:

Seattle’s Recent Performance

Seattle enters this series playing the seventh game of a ten-game road trip. Over their last 12 games, they were swept by the , lost two of three to the New York Yankees, swept the , and won two of three against the White Sox. In their most recent game, a 6-5 win, Casey Legumina earned the win in relief, while Julio Rodríguez, Cal Raleigh, and Leody Tavares each hit home runs.

Hit the ball hard just about every time up today. Found the barrel a lot, particularly that last time up, and that was a big lift for us. — Dan Wilson, on Tavares

Take a look at Tavares’ highlights:

Current Standings and Playoff Predictions

Here’s a snapshot of where both teams stand:

• : 25-24, .510, second in the AL West, 3.5 games behind Seattle. Seventh in the American League, 1.5 games behind the current number six-seed . Fifteenth in MLB. On pace for 83-79, FG projects 84-78 and a 50.4 percent chance at reaching the postseason.
• Seattle Mariners: 28-20, .583, leads the AL West. Third in the American League behind the and the New York Yankees. Seventh in MLB. On pace for 95-67, FG projects 88-74 and a 78.8 percent chance at the playoffs.

Fan Poll: Series Prediction

What are fans expecting from this series? Here’s a look at the current poll results:

Conclusion: Can the Astros Turn the Tide?

The Houston Astros face a critical juncture in their season as they host the Seattle Mariners. With a history of struggles against Seattle, the Astros need to overcome the odds and secure a series victory. The pitching matchups are set, and the team’s performance this series will significantly impact their playoff prospects.

Key takeaways from this preview include the importance of a strong start from LMJ and the need for consistent offensive production throughout the lineup. As the standings indicate, Houston can’t afford to drop further behind in the AL West. All eyes will be on this series to see if the Astros can rise to the occasion and make a statement in their division.

Ultimately, this series is about more than just four games; it’s about the Astros proving they can compete with the best in their division and solidify their position as playoff contenders. Don’t miss the action as the Mariners visit Houston!