The Kansas City Royals, currently enduring a difficult stretch, will host the Seattle Mariners in the second game of their series on Saturday. Seattle, having already secured the series opener, looks to maintain their impressive recent performance on the road.
After a challenging start to the season where the Mariners dropped eight of nine away games, they have rebounded strongly, posting a 10-4 record on the road since early April. Their momentum was evident on Friday when they defeated Kansas City 2-0, powered by Mitch Garver’s two-run homer in the seventh inning. The Mariners’ pitching staff combined for a shutout, limiting the Royals to just four hits.
Mariners manager Dan Wilson emphasized the team’s focus on persistence and daily preparation. Outfielder Julio Rodríguez also contributed with two hits and continues to perform well against Kansas City.
Meanwhile, the Royals are struggling significantly, having lost 10 of their last 11 games. Their batting average during this period stands at a low .216, reflecting their difficulties in generating offense. Their home performance has also declined, with the team enduring a season-high losing streak at home.
Seattle will turn to George Kirby on the mound, who aims to recover after a tough outing against San Diego where he surrendered six runs. Despite that setback, Kirby has historically been effective against Kansas City, allowing minimal damage in previous matchups.
Kansas City will counter with Stephen Kolek, who has shown inconsistent results since being added to the rotation due to injuries among the Royals’ starting pitchers. Kolek impressed in his last start against St. Louis but has yet to secure a win against Seattle.
Despite the Royals’ overall struggles, Bobby Witt Jr. remains a standout performer. He has consistently hit well against the Mariners, particularly at home, and has found success in past encounters with Kirby.
