09/14: Open game thread

After beating the Los Angeles Angels, 8-1, to open the series and stretch the win streak to six, the Seattle Mariners gifted us the glorious game that was last night. Taijuan Walker was marvelous, and the Mariners toasted the Angels to the tune of an 8-0 victory. What will they do for an encore tonight? 8 to -1? 20-0? A sweep? A sweep. that is all that truly matters.

Jhoulys Chacin is what stands between the Mariners and glory. He is starting his first game for the Angels since late August. The Mariners did see him in a game of long relief. They told him, hey Jhoulys, nothing against you but you are in our way, and scored five runs in four innings. Granted, Chacin did his best to help, walking three batters in the process. Chacin has not been a good pitcher this year, and really for a few years since his days with the Colorado Rockies.

For the Mariners, with the way they are hitting, a pitcher like Chacin shouldn't be much of an issue. There aren't too many exciting lineup related things, except for we get to see Dan Vogelbach in at first again. Iwakuma is looking for his third-straight solid start. The Mariners need any and all players to rise to the occasion right now while they try and worm their way into the playoffs, and for the most part, Iwakuma has been doing his part. Since August 3, Iwakuma has 49.1 innings with a FIP of 3.89. His BABIP during that time has even been higher than it has during the course of the year, so he is still overcoming what could be a little bit of bad luck.

All games the Mariners need to win because hey playoffs. But really, tonight, this is a game the Mariners really need to win. And oh hey, ESPN and the national audience!

Game Info:

• Time: 7:10 pm PT
• Radio: 710 ESPN
• TV: ESPN
• Online: WatchESPN