SEATTLE — The Seattle Mariners powered through an early offensive surge to secure an 8-6 victory over the Chicago White Sox on August 16, 2023, at T-Mobile Park. This win marked a significant milestone for the Mariners, bringing their season record to 62-53 and placing them nine games above .500 for the first time this year. Following the game, Seattle remained just two games behind the Houston Astros in the American League West and held a narrow one-game lead over the New York Yankees for the second AL Wild Card spot.
Mariners manager Dan Wilson praised the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of their early scoring. “Really nice ball game tonight,” he remarked. “To get that second game — big for us. I thought offensively we did a lot of great things, especially doing them early. A lot of two-out runs across the board there early in the ball game. Just, really, some great at-bats.”
The Mariners established dominance early in the game, scoring seven of their eight runs within the first two innings. The offensive onslaught began with a powerful 450-foot home run from first baseman Josh Naylor, a recent acquisition who continued to impress with his performance. Naylor not only hit a two-run homer but also showcased his speed by stealing two bases in the same inning.
“I just want to take every opportunity and try to make the best of it,” Naylor stated after the game. “I want to try and impact the game the best I can, I want to try and help the team win ball games. That’s the end goal.”
Key Plays Propel Mariners Ahead
In the bottom of the second inning, catcher Cal Raleigh contributed with a two-RBI single, followed by a three-run homer from center fielder Julio Rodriguez, extending the Mariners’ lead to 7-1. With this early cushion, starting pitcher George Kirby was able to navigate the aggressive Chicago lineup effectively. Kirby delivered a quality start, throwing 104 pitches over six innings, striking out nine, walking two, and allowing two runs on five hits. This performance marked his third consecutive quality start.
“They’re gonna be swinging, so I don’t have to throw it in the zone,” Kirby explained. “As long as I make it look like a strike, I should be able to get a swing or a swing-and-a-miss off it — some weak contact.”
As the game progressed, the White Sox capitalized on Kirby’s exit, scoring three runs against reliever Eduard Bazardo in the seventh inning. Designated hitter Mike Tauchman hit a two-run homer, and second baseman Lenyn Sosa followed with a solo shot, narrowing the Mariners’ lead.
Despite the White Sox’s resurgence, Rodriguez managed to score an insurance run in the bottom of the seventh, courtesy of an RBI sacrifice fly from third baseman Eugenio Suarez. As the game neared its conclusion, the Mariners turned to All-Star reliever Andres Munoz to secure the win.
In a tense ninth inning, Chicago right fielder Michael Taylor hit a solo home run against Munoz. This marked the first home run Munoz had allowed since May 30, bringing the score to 8-6. After walking two batters, Munoz steadied himself to earn his 26th save of the season.
Looking ahead, the Mariners will attempt to complete a series sweep against the White Sox in the final game, scheduled for 1:10 p.m. PT on Thursday. Logan Gilbert is set to take the mound for Seattle, while the White Sox will counter with Shane Smith.
As the Mariners continue to push for a playoff spot, their recent performances have showcased a blend of offensive power and resilient pitching, making them a team to watch in the coming weeks.
