Seattle Mariners vs Toronto Blue Jays Picks and Predictions July 7th 2024

Mariners Face Blue Jays, Await Julio Rodriguez’s MRI Results

The Seattle Mariners are in a bit of a bind as they prepare for the series finale against the Toronto Blue Jays. Their star player, Julio Rodriguez, left Saturday’s game early and is awaiting MRI results on his right quadriceps. This puts his availability for Sunday’s game in question.

Julio Rodriguez’s Health Concerns

Unexpected Exit: Julio Rodriguez, who was supposed to bat cleanup, exited Saturday’s game after the first inning due to tightness in his lower right quadriceps. This follows a rough week of minor injuries, including a jammed right thumb and a foul ball off his left knee.

Manager’s Comments: Mariners manager Scott Servais shared some insights: “He came in this morning and felt fine. But during pre-game sprints in the outfield, he felt something. It tightened up and didn’t feel great.”

Immediate Adjustments: With Rodriguez out, Luke Raley moved to center field, and Ty France, who was set for a day off, took over at first base. Servais remarked, “You kind of have an idea going into the game how you’re going to use your bench, and when one of your main guys comes out like that, you’ve got to pivot quickly.”

Game Highlights

Blue Jays’ Victory: The Blue Jays secured a 5-4 win, with rookie right-hander Yariel Rodriguez pitching six scoreless innings of one-hit ball, earning his first major league victory. Alejandro Kirk went 3-for-4 with a double and two RBIs.

Mariners’ Late Rally: Despite falling behind 5-0, the Mariners made a late push. Mitch Haniger hit a three-run homer in the eighth inning, and Luke Raley added a solo shot in the ninth. However, the comeback ultimately fell short.

Manager’s Outlook: “We still have a chance to win the series tomorrow,” Servais said. “We just have to do more offensively early in the ballgames. I give our guys credit; they didn’t quit.”

Pitching Matchup for Series Finale

Jose Berrios for the Blue Jays: Right-hander Jose Berrios (8-6, 3.63 ERA) will start for Toronto. Berrios has a strong track record against the Mariners, with a 4-2 record and a 2.84 ERA in eight career starts. He recently pitched 6 2/3 scoreless innings against Seattle, allowing just four hits and one walk.

George Kirby for the Mariners: Right-hander George Kirby (7-6, 3.32 ERA) will pitch for Seattle. Kirby had a stellar June, going 3-0 with a 1.74 ERA, but struggled in his last outing, a 2-0 loss to Baltimore. He is 0-1 with a 7.56 ERA in two appearances against Toronto.

Conclusion

Sunday’s game is a big one for both teams. The Mariners are looking to secure a series win despite the uncertainty around Julio Rodriguez’s health. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays want to build on their recent victory and keep their momentum going. This matchup promises to be a competitive and pivotal contest.