The Seattle Mariners and Houston Astros are both experiencing challenging starts to their 2023 MLB season. The Mariners, the defending American League West champions, hold a record of 4-9 and are currently on a five-game losing streak. They share the position for the worst record in the league.
The Astros, who are rivals to the Mariners, are slightly better at 6-7 but have also lost four consecutive games, including a series sweep by the Colorado Rockies, who had the worst record in the previous season. Both teams are eager to improve their fortunes as they face off in a four-game series starting this Friday at T-Mobile Park at 6:40 p.m. PT.
Key Pitching Matchups: Mariners vs. Astros
Analyzing the pitching matchups provides insight into the series dynamics. Here’s what to expect:
Game 1 Pitching Preview
- George Kirby (Mariners): Kirby is coming off an impressive outing against the Texas Rangers, where he pitched eight innings, allowing three earned runs and striking out four batters.
- To Be Determined (Astros): With injuries affecting their rotation, the Astros have not announced their starter for this game yet.
Game 2 Pitching Preview
- Brian Hancock (Mariners): Hancock aims for his third straight quality start after allowing only one earned run against the Los Angeles Angels in his last outing.
- Shayne Imai (Astros): After a strong first major league appearance, Imai struck out nine batters in 5.2 innings against the Angels.
Game 3 Pitching Preview
- Logan Gilbert (Mariners): Gilbert is building momentum after a quality start, where he allowed two earned runs in six innings against the Rangers.
- To Be Determined (Astros): Like in Game 1, Houston’s starting pitcher for this game has yet to be confirmed.
Game 4 Pitching Preview
- Luis Castillo (Mariners): Castillo looks to rebound from a rough outing against the Angels where he gave up four runs in 3.2 innings.
- To Be Determined (Astros): Houston faces uncertainty with injuries to key pitchers Hunter Brown and Cristian Javier. Their fourth starter remains undecided.
As both teams strive for better outcomes in this series, strong performances from their pitchers will be critical. Fans can look forward to an exciting clash as the Mariners and Astros aim to turn their seasons around.
