Athletics vs Mariners Preview: Pitching Duel in Seattle

Yesterday's game showed us something exciting about the Oakland Athletics. The team fought back with homers and a clutch eighth inning to beat Seattle 6-4. Now Oakland brings momentum to T-Mobile Park for Wednesday's matchup. However, the Mariners are hungry to respond after that tough loss. Seattle's deep pitching staff, led by Luis Castillo, will take the mound. The Athletics counter with Jacob Lopez, hoping to keep their winning streak alive. Both teams understand that games this early in the season matter—every win pushes you closer to contention.

Julio Rodriguez represents Seattle's brightest young talent. The outfielder has made three All-Star teams in just four seasons. Last year he crushed 32 homers and stole 30 bases, proving he impacts games multiple ways. Cal Raleigh, the Mariners' catcher, just finished an unforgettable 2025 season with 60 home runs—most in all of baseball. His 125 RBIs led the American League. Raleigh finished second in MVP voting and won a Gold Glove in 2024. These two powerful hitters give Seattle serious offensive weapons. Meanwhile, Oakland counters with Nick Kurtz, an exciting young first baseman selected fourth overall in the 2024 draft.

The Athletics' pitching staff holds keys to staying competitive this season. Veteran Luis Severino anchors Oakland's rotation alongside Jeffrey Springs and Aaron Civale. These experienced arms must perform well and stay healthy to keep games close. Closer Hogan Harris posted a 3.20 ERA last season, bringing stability to the bullpen. Meanwhile, Seattle boasts one of baseball's deepest pitching staffs. Logan Gilbert and Luis Castillo anchor the rotation, with George Kirby, Bryce Miller, and Bryan Woo providing excellent depth. Closer Andrés Muñoz recorded 38 saves with a 1.73 ERA last year. Both teams lean heavily on pitching excellence to win games throughout this critical stretch.