The Kansas City Royals will host the Seattle Mariners in a thrilling MLB showdown at Kauffman Stadium. Both teams enter this game with different motivations. While the Mariners are fighting for a spot in the AL Wild Card race, the Royals are determined to play the spoiler. The two teams have split their first two games of the series, making this matchup crucial for securing a series win. With tensions high, expect an intense battle between these two squads.
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Mariners and Royals Set to Battle in Exciting Matchup
The Mariners (64-55) have been on a hot streak, winning seven of their last ten games. They have been making a push toward an AL Wild Card spot and are just two games away from securing it. Starting pitcher Luis Castillo will take the mound for the Mariners, armed with a 3.14 ERA. Castillo has been impressive in recent outings, allowing only one or zero runs in two of his last three starts. The Mariners’ offense has shown resilience, capable of generating runs when needed. With some key players sidelined due to injuries, they will rely on their depth to deliver against a depleted Kansas City rotation and bullpen.
On the other side, the Royals (39-82) have had a challenging season, plagued by injuries and inconsistencies. James McArthur will start on the mound for the Royals, still searching for his first result this season. However, his 13.50 ERA raises doubts about his ability to shut down the Mariners’ lineup. The Royals’ offense has struggled, averaging just four runs per game and hitting .239 as a team. Bobby Witt Jr. has been a bright spot with a .277 average, 23 home runs, and 76 RBI. But the young star cannot carry the team alone, and the Royals will need a collective effort to compete with the Mariners.
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The game will be played on Wednesday, August 16th, 2023, at 8:10pm EDT. Catch the action on BSKC.
Mariners’ Ty France Saves the Day Again
– Look out for Mariners infielder Ty France, who delivered a crucial two-run single in extra innings in Tuesday night’s game against the Royals.
– Mariners’ Luis Castillo will bring his impressive 3.14 ERA to the mound, making him a formidable force against the struggling Royals’ lineup.
– The Mariners’ recent surge toward the AL Wild Card race has created high stakes for this game, as they aim to continue their push for a playoff spot.
Injuries
Royals: Daniel Lynch (SP, Shoulder, D15), Jake Brentz (RP, Elbow, D60), Vinnie Pasquantino (1B, Shoulder, D60), Kris Bubic (SP, Flexor, D60), Zack Greinke (SP, Elbow, D15), Nick Pratto (1B, Groin, D10), Josh Staumont (RP, Neck, D60), Brad Keller (SP, Shoulder, D60), Taylor Clarke (RP, Elbow, D15), Josh Taylor (RP, Shoulder, D60)
Mariners: J.P. Crawford (SS, Concussion, D7), Easton McGee (SP, Forearm, D60), Marco Gonzales (SP, Forearm, D60), Bryan Woo (SP, Forearm, D15), Tom Murphy (C, Thumb, D10), Robbie Ray (SP, Flexor, D60), Penn Murfee (RP, Elbow, D60), Evan White (1B, Adductor, D60), Jarred Kelenic (LF, Foot, D10)
Main photo credits:
Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
