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On April 7th, 2023, the Seattle Mariners and the Cleveland Guardians faced off in a highly anticipated matchup at Progressive Field in Cleveland, Ohio. The Mariners were coming off a strong start to their season, having won their first two games, while the Guardians were looking for their first victory after dropping their first game of the season.
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The Mariners sent right-hander Chris Flexen to the mound, while the Guardians countered with right-hander Shane Bieber. Both pitchers had solid outings, but it was the Mariners’ offense that ultimately made the difference in the game.
The Mariners got on the board first in the top of the second inning, when third baseman Kyle Seager hit a solo home run to right field. The Guardians tied the game in the bottom of the fourth inning, when left fielder Eddie Rosario hit an RBI single to score designated hitter Franmil Reyes.
The Mariners retook the lead in the top of the fifth inning, when second baseman Dylan Moore hit an RBI single to score shortstop J.P. Crawford. They added to their lead in the top of the sixth inning, when left fielder Jarred Kelenic hit a two-run home run to right field.
The Guardians had a chance to cut into the Mariners’ lead in the bottom of the seventh inning, when they loaded the bases with two outs. However, Mariners reliever Rafael Montero was able to get out of the jam by inducing a groundout from center fielder Oscar Mercado.
The Mariners added an insurance run in the top of the eighth inning, when first baseman Evan White hit an RBI single to score catcher Tom Murphy. Mariners closer Kendall Graveman closed out the game with a scoreless ninth inning, securing the Mariners’ third consecutive victory to start the season.
One of the key factors in the Mariners’ victory was their offense’s ability to come up with big hits. Kyle Seager’s solo home run and Jarred Kelenic’s two-run home run were key hits in the game, while Dylan Moore’s RBI single provided the go-ahead run.
Another key factor in the game was the Mariners’ bullpen’s ability to shut down the Guardians’ offense. After Chris Flexen’s solid outing, the Mariners’ bullpen of Rafael Montero, Drew Steckenrider, and Kendall Graveman combined for three scoreless innings, allowing only two hits and striking out four batters.
In contrast, the Guardians struggled to come up with timely hits throughout the game. Despite loading the bases in the seventh inning, they were not able to capitalize on the opportunity and tie the game. They will be looking to improve their offensive performance in their upcoming games.
Shane Bieber’s solid outing was a bright spot for the Guardians. He pitched six innings, allowing three runs on six hits and striking out eight batters. However, the Guardians’ bullpen was not able to keep the game close, allowing two runs in the final two innings of the game.
In conclusion, the Seattle Mariners’ victory over the Cleveland Guardians was a result of timely hitting and strong bullpen performance. The Mariners will be looking to continue their winning streak in their upcoming games, while the Guardians will be looking to bounce back and get their first win of the season.
