The Seattle Mariners are facing a crucial series against the Houston Astros as they battle to regain a share of the American League West lead and avoid a three-game sweep. The Mariners have opted to start Bryan Woo instead of All-Star Logan Gilbert in the series finale on Sunday.
Woo, who has a record of 3-1 with a 2.45 ERA, will take the mound against Astros right-hander Ronel Blanco, who boasts a record of 9-4 with a 2.56 ERA. Mariners manager Scott Servais explained the decision to start Woo, citing the need to keep him in rhythm and avoid a long layoff. Meanwhile, Gilbert, who leads the MLB with 132 1/3 innings pitched, will get some much-needed rest.
The Astros, led by Jake Meyers and Yainer Diaz, won the second game of the series on Saturday, moving into sole possession of first place in the division. Houston has been on a hot streak, winning 19 of their last 25 games to erase a 10-game deficit in the division race.
On the other hand, the Mariners have been struggling, losing five in a row and 17 of their last 25 games. Despite a strong start to the season, they are now 2 1/2 games back in the chase for the final wild-card berth.
The series finale promises to be an exciting matchup, with Woo looking to build on his previous start against the Astros and Blanco aiming to improve his record against the Mariners. Both teams are hungry for a win, and the outcome of the game could have a significant impact on the playoff race.
As the two teams battle it out on the field, fans can expect a thrilling conclusion to the series with both teams giving it their all to come out on top. Stay tuned for what promises to be a nail-biting finish between the Mariners and the Astros.
