The Seattle Mariners have just completed a three-game sweep of the Kansas City Royals, claiming sole possession of first place in the American League West. The Mariners have been on a roll lately, winning seven of their last eight games and improving their record to 18-11.
The Mariners’ offense has been the key to their success. They have scored at least five runs in each of their last five games, and have hit a total of 23 home runs in that span. The team’s batting average has risen from .245 to .263 since the start of the season, and they lead the AL West in runs scored.
The pitching staff has also been impressive. The Mariners’ starters have gone at least six innings in each of their last five games, and the bullpen has allowed just two earned runs in that span. Seattle’s ERA has dropped from 4.44 to 3.91 since the start of the season, and they lead the AL West in strikeouts.
The Mariners have been led by veterans like Nelson Cruz and Robinson Cano, who have combined for 11 home runs and 34 RBIs in the last eight games. Young stars like Mitch Haniger and Jean Segura have also been key contributors, with Segura hitting .364 in that span.
The Mariners are now in sole possession of first place in the AL West, and look poised to make a run at the playoffs. With their offense firing on all cylinders and their pitching staff continuing to perform at a high level, the Mariners look like a team that could make some noise in October.
