Offensive Struggles:
Photo Cred: The Score
Since June 18th, the Mariners have posted a disappointing 8-15 record, largely due to their lackluster offense. Currently, Seattle boasts a team batting average of .219, the lowest among division leaders and the worst in the entire league. Notably, they also led the MLB with 1,013 strikeouts halfway through the season. During the offseason, the Mariners acquired Jorge Polanco, Luke Raley, and Mitch Haniger.
However, all three have underperformed compared to last season. Of particular concern is Jorge Polanco, who is enduring his worst season to date with a meager .197 batting average, a significant drop from his .255 average with the Minnesota Twins last year. The former All-Star has also accumulated 78 strikeouts through his first 61 games this season, which matches his total from 2017 when he played 133 games. It has not just been the new offensive acquisitions that have disappointed, even superstar Julio Rodriguez has left more to be desired.
Rodriguez’s Roadblock:
Photo Cred: Gregory Bull/AP Photo
The 2024 season marks the first time Julio Rodriguez has not been selected for the All-Star game in his career. Since his standout rookie campaign in 2022, where he amassed 75 RBIs, 28 home runs, and maintained a .284 batting average, Rodriguez has seen a decline in offensive production. This year, he has posted only 35 RBIs, 10 home runs, and a .267 batting average thus far.
However, Rodriguez has shown a recent surge in form. In July, he boasts a batting average of .457 and an outstanding .632 average over the past week. The Mariners are banking on Rodriguez to sustain this momentum as they strive to maintain their division lead over the final months of the season. Despite offensive challenges, Seattle remains in first place largely due to their world-class pitching rotation.
Electric Pitching Rotation:
Photo Cred: USA Today
Seattle has thrived in many tightly contested, low-scoring games thanks to the prowess of their starting pitching rotation. The rotation features:
- Luis Castillo: 3.35 ERA & 116 strikeouts
- George Kirby: 3.29 ERA & 116 strikeouts
- Logan Gilbert: 2.79 ERA & 124 strikeouts
- Brian Woo: 2.45 ERA & 29 strikeouts
- Bryce Miller: 3.63 ERA & 98 strikeouts
Each of these pitchers boasts an ERA lower than the league average of 4.06. The Mariners lead the MLB with 58 quality starts, defined as when a starting pitcher goes at least six innings while allowing three runs or fewer. Seattle also leads in opponent batting average at .218 and hits allowed with 698. Supported by a strong bullpen, the Mariners arguably possess the best pitching rotation in the league.
As the trade deadline approaches, it remains uncertain whether Seattle will make a significant move to acquire a star hitter. However, if the Mariners fail to reach the playoffs, criticism will likely focus on their struggles to generate offense.
