Julio Delivers, Pitching Impresses, but Offense Inconsistent in Mariners’ Season Opener Split

The Seattle Mariners commenced their 2025 season with a four-game series against the Oakland Athletics at T-Mobile Park, resulting in a split with two wins each. This series provided early insights into the Mariners’ potential strengths and areas requiring improvement as they embark on their campaign in the American League West.

Game 1: Mariners 4, Athletics 2

On Opening Day, March 27, the Mariners secured a 4-2 victory. After trailing 2-1 in the eighth inning, Randy Arozarena tied the game with a solo home run, followed by Jorge Polanco’s two-run homer, leading to the win. Logan Gilbert started, pitching seven innings with eight strikeouts, allowing two runs on five hits. Andrés Muñoz earned the save. 

Game 2: Athletics 7, Mariners 0

The Athletics responded on March 28 with a 7-0 shutout. Brent Rooker and Max Muncy each hit home runs. Seattle’s offense struggled, managing only four hits and striking out 13 times. Luis Castillo took the loss, surrendering five runs on eight hits over five innings. 

Game 3: Athletics 4, Mariners 2

On March 29, the Mariners fell 4-2. Shea Langeliers hit a two-run homer for Oakland. Bryce Miller started for Seattle, allowing two runs on four hits in five innings, striking out six. The bullpen allowed two additional runs, and the offense left eight runners on base. 

Game 4: Mariners 2, Athletics 1

The Mariners edged out a 2-1 win on March 30. Bryan Woo pitched six innings, allowing one run on three hits with seven strikeouts. Julio Rodríguez’s 438-foot two-run homer in the sixth inning provided the decisive runs. Andrés Muñoz secured his second save of the season.

Key Player Performances:

• Jorge Polanco (2B): .400 AVG (6-for-15), 1 HR, 4 RBIs

• Julio Rodríguez (CF): .211 AVG (4-for-19), 1 HR, 3 RBIs

• Randy Arozarena (LF): .158 AVG (3-for-19), 2 HRs, 2 RBIs

• Logan Gilbert (SP): 0-1, 3.00 ERA, 12.0 IP, 18 Ks

• Bryan Woo (SP): 1-0, 1.50 ERA, 6.0 IP, 7 Ks

• Andrés Muñoz (RP): 2 SVs, 0.00 ERA

Strengths Observed:

• Starting Rotation: Logan Gilbert and Bryan Woo delivered strong performances, indicating a solid rotation foundation.

• Bullpen Effectiveness: Except for Game 3, the bullpen maintained leads, with Muñoz recording two saves.

Areas for Improvement:

• Offensive Consistency: The lineup struggled in Games 2 and 3, highlighting the need for more consistent run production.

• Plate Discipline: High strikeout totals suggest a need for improved contact rates and approach at the plate.

As the Mariners continue their season, addressing these areas while building on their demonstrated strengths will be vital in their pursuit of contention in the AL West.