6/22/19: Open Game Thread

Yesterday’s game reminded us all of how important it is for our self-esteem not to be the worst at something. Thank you, Orioles, for moving in from out of town and immediately flunking algebra and bringing down the curve so that the Mariners can experience a few fleeting moments of superiority.

Today’s game is themed after the one-and-done 1969 Seattle Pilots (LL’s Amanda Lane wrote about their unexpected impact on baseball and the Mariners here). It is the fiftieth anniversary and the Mariners are celebrating by writing the lineup in difficult to read cursive.

Tim Beckham: First Baseman makes an appearance I see.

Tommy Milone is spared the shame of having an opener against the Orioles today. Here is your uncomfortable reminder that Milone has been the Mariners most effective starter to date, with a 3.66 FIP, and is second to Marco Gonzales in WAR with .6. Tommy Milone being the Mariners most effective starter is one of the most depressing and illustrative facts of this season.

On a brighter note, I am legitimately excited to watch Mallex Smith and JP Crawford after they went a combined 6 for 7 last night with three walks. Both of these players are vital to the team’s 2020-2021 plans and watching them play well puts me at ease. Losing is never fun, but so long as the important pieces perform I can close my eyes and imagine a winning team sometime in the future. That’s all I need.

Game time: 1:10 PM PST

TV: Root Sports NW

Radio: 710 AM ESPN Seattle

Streaming: MLB.tv