Seattle Mariners vs Houston Astros Picks and Predictions July 21st 2024

Struggling Mariners Turn to Bryan Woo in Finale vs. Astros

The Seattle Mariners face a crucial game on Sunday as they turn to Bryan Woo in the series finale against the Houston Astros. With All-Star Logan Gilbert not scheduled to pitch, the Mariners are determined to avoid a three-game sweep and reclaim their spot in the American League West race.

Mariners’ Pitching Strategy

Bryan Woo Takes the Mound

Bryan Woo (3-1, 2.45 ERA):

• Woo steps in for Logan Gilbert, who leads the MLB in innings pitched (132 1/3) but is being rested.
• Recent Performance: Woo’s last start was on July 12, where he pitched just 3 1/3 innings in a 6-5 loss to the Los Angeles Angels.

Mariners manager Scott Servais emphasized the importance of keeping pitchers in rhythm: “You want to keep guys in some rhythm, and I think putting Bryan Woo into this series is something that we talked a lot about. We want to get him pitching again and didn’t want to have the layoff be too long.”

Logan Gilbert’s Rest:

• Despite leading the league in innings pitched, Gilbert is being given a rest to ensure his effectiveness for the rest of the season.
• Gilbert himself acknowledged the benefit of rest: “In a series like this, I always wish I could be out there, it’d be really fun. But I also understand it, and I love having a little bit of rest. It’s very much appreciated at this point in the season.”

Astros’ Recent Dominance

Houston Astros

The Astros have surged to the top of the AL West, winning 19 of their past 25 games and erasing a 10-game deficit in the division race.

Key Performances:

• Jake Meyers and Yainer Diaz: Both hit home runs in Saturday’s 4-2 win, which put the Astros in sole possession of first place.

Meyers emphasized the team’s mindset: “I think we’ve adopted the same mindset of, we’ve just got to keep winning the game at hand and playing together, and we’re a great team when we do that.”

Mariners’ Recent Struggles

Seattle Mariners

The Mariners have hit a rough patch, losing five in a row and 17 of their last 25 games. Once atop the AL West since May 12, Seattle is now 2 1/2 games back in the race for the league’s third and final wild-card berth.

Julio Rodriguez: Provided a highlight with a two-run homer in Saturday’s game, but it wasn’t enough to stave off another loss.

Manager Scott Servais acknowledged the team’s struggles: “We’ve got guys who are struggling right now to get some traction and get it going, and they know it. They feel it. And the team in the other dugout across the way is playing very good baseball right now.”

Pitching Matchup

Seattle Mariners

Bryan Woo (3-1, 2.45 ERA):

• Woo is 0-0 with a 1.50 ERA in one previous start against the Astros on July 8, 2023.

Houston Astros

Ronel Blanco (9-4, 2.56 ERA):

• Blanco is 0-1 with a 5.65 ERA in four career appearances against Seattle, including two starts.
• Recent Start: Blanco had a no-decision on May 3 in Houston, allowing three runs in six innings in a game the Astros won 5-3.

Game Implications

The Mariners aim to avoid a sweep and regain their footing in the competitive AL West. Woo’s performance will be crucial in providing stability and a much-needed win. For the Astros, maintaining their hot streak is key as they look to solidify their position atop the division.

Conclusion

The series finale between the Mariners and Astros is critical for both teams. With Bryan Woo taking the mound for Seattle and Ronel Blanco pitching for Houston, the game promises to be a high-stakes showdown. The Mariners hope to end their losing streak and regain momentum, while the Astros aim to continue their dominance and extend their lead in the AL West.