The Seattle Mariners secured a 2–0 victory over the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium, improving their record to 83-69. The Royals fell to 76-76 following the loss. The game was played in scorching conditions, with temperatures reaching 100 degrees, and a gentle breeze blowing out to right field at 5 mph.
Seattle’s win came on the back of a strong pitching performance from Luis Castillo, who earned his 9th win of the season. Castillo delivered six solid innings, allowing only three hits and striking out three batters. The Mariners’ bullpen then combined for three scoreless innings to secure the shutout win.
Mariners Offense Does Just Enough
Despite managing just five hits, the Mariners found a way to score two crucial runs. Jorge Polanco and J.P. Crawford each recorded an RBI, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Polanco and Crawford both hit doubles, with their extra-base hits playing a pivotal role in driving in the runs.
Josh Naylor was a standout performer for the Mariners, going 2-for-3 at the plate and scoring one of the two runs. His contribution was vital in a low-scoring game where every hit counted. The Mariners’ lineup showed patience and resilience against Kansas City’s pitchers.
Royals’ Struggles at the Plate
The Royals had five hits but were unable to capitalize on their opportunities. Vinnie Pasquantino had a notable performance, hitting the only double for Kansas City. Despite some promising individual performances, the Royals couldn’t string together enough hits to challenge the Mariners’ lead.
Salvador Perez, Adam Frazier, and Jacob Caglianone each added a single hit to the Royals’ tally. Bobby Witt Jr., however, struggled at the plate, going 0-for-4 with two strikeouts. Kansas City’s inability to drive in runs ultimately cost them the game.
Pitching Battle
Stephen Kolek was the unfortunate losing pitcher for the Royals, despite putting in a commendable performance. Kolek pitched 7.1 innings, allowing just two runs (one earned) while striking out eight Mariners batters. His efforts kept Kansas City within striking distance throughout the game.
For the Mariners, their bullpen continued the impressive work started by Castillo. Enyel De Los Santos, Gabe Speier, and Andrés Muñoz each delivered scoreless innings. Muñoz, in particular, was dominant in the ninth, striking out three batters to seal the win.
The Mariners’ win keeps them in second place in the AL West, maintaining their push for a postseason berth. The victory also showcased the depth and skill of their pitching staff, a crucial element as the season enters its final stretch.
Manager Dan Wilson will be pleased with how his team performed, especially in such difficult weather conditions. With upcoming games against the Houston Astros, the Mariners will need to carry this momentum forward. The team will head to Daikin Park to face a strong Astros squad in their next three games.
Meanwhile, the Royals will look to regroup as they continue their homestand against the Toronto Blue Jays. Manager Matt Quatraro will aim to address the offensive struggles and get his team back on track. With the season winding down, every game becomes increasingly important for Kansas City.
The Mariners’ next opponent, the Astros, are always a challenging team, and Seattle’s ability to capitalize on their current form will be tested. Similarly, the Royals will need to refocus and find consistency to finish the season on a high note. Both teams are aware of the stakes, as the postseason approaches.
