NorthWest Sports Blog brings you daily features on Oregon, Washington State, and BC amateur and pro sports teams.
NWSB Insider and Seattle Mariners blogger Jonathan Irwin reports on three potential free agents signees for the M’s. Among the list are Anibal Sanchez, Mike Napoli and B.J. Upton. All three could have a significant impact on the Mariners, and would be great moves for the offseason. The Seattle Mariners are on the fringe of becoming relevant in the American League once more.
NWSB Insider and Seattle Mariners blogger Ben Tole gives his thoughts on the ticket prices for the 2013 MLB season. After the sixth sub-.500 season in the past eight years, the Seattle Mariners will be raising ticket prices for 2013. The price hike will depend on the game, as well as where the seats are located within Safeco Field. The problem with the move is not so much about the price increase; the problem lies within how it was communicated to the fans.
New NWSB Insider & Seattle Mariners blogger Jeff Budke weighs in on the M’s 2013 options at catcher. Powered by a young stud, a veteran, and a mountain man escaped from the woods, the Mariners have acquired a position of strength in Seattle—and the most powerful of the bunch may be developing in the minor leagues. With Jesus Montero, Miguel Olivo, John Jaso and Mike Zunino who wins out at backstop?
NWSB Insider and Seattle Mariners blogger Jonathan Irwin reports on his list of offseason moves for the 2013 Seattle Mariners. The team is in a crossroads, looking to build off their strong farm system while staying competitive. While they have to sacrifice in some areas—such as keeping the rotation open—it’s time they sealed up old holes—such as the enigma at firstbase. Keep Jason Vargas and Felix Hernandez figure out Justin Smoak.
NWSB Insider and Seattle Mariners blogger Jonathan Irwin reports on the 2012 American League West division. Wrapping up the end of the season, the unlikeliest of teams takes away the AL West crown. The division will be well represented in October, with the Rangers and As making it to the postseason.
NWSB Insider and Seattle Mariners blogger Jonathan Irwin reports on the third game of the series versus the Oakland Athletics. The Headline: an eight inning collapse by the bullpen gives the A’s life, as they complete their sweep of the Mariners. Seattle hangs tough all day with strong starting pitching, but the bullpen blows it in the final frames of the game. Michael Saunders batting sixth. Miguel Olivo at DH and Jesus Montero at catcher. Bizarre lineup.
NWSB Insider and Seattle Mariners blogger Jonathan Irwin reports on the third game of the series versus the Los Angeles Angels. The Headline: John Jaso leads the way as the Mariners dominate on all sides of the field, avoid sweep. Strong nights from Jaso and Iwakuma help seal another Mariners win. Unfortunately, a running catch by Gutierrez knocks him out of the game.
NWSB Insider and Seattle Mariners blogger Jonathan Irwin reports on the third game of the series versus the Texas Rangers. The Headline: the Mariners drop this one by a hair, and though the failed to complete the sweep they still win the series. The Mariners do everything to put themselves in a position to win, but can’t follow through. The biggest complaint, it all feels too normal at this point.
NWSB Insider and Seattle Mariners blogger Jonathan Irwin reports on the first game of the series versus the Texas Rangers. The Headline: Justin Smoak and Miguel Olivo come alive as the Mariners top the Rangers. After an abysmal offensive effort against Baltimore, the Mariner bats finally show signs of life as the put six runs up against the visiting Rangers.
NWSB Insider and Seattle Mariners blogger Jonathan Irwin reports on the third game of the series versus the Toronto Blue Jays. Dustin Ackley belts his 11th home run, but it isn’t enough as King Felix Hernandez is lit up for seven earned runs. Luckily, Seattle still escapes with two our of three against the cellar dwelling Jays.
NWSB Insider and Seattle Mariners blogger Jonathan Irwin reports on the second game of the series versus the Oakland Athletics. The Headline: Tommy Milone mows over the M’s as Oakland completes the sweep. Despite a healthy outfield and a new lineup, Oakland and Milone prove too much for the Mariner’s in this series finale. Alex Liddi went 1-for-3 and scored a run in his first start since June 9th.
NWSB Insider and Seattle Mariners blogger Jonathan Irwin reports on the second game of the series versus the Twins. The Headline: timely hits from Ackley and Seager secure another M’s win. Hisashi Iwakuma struggled with his control, but that didn’t stop the rookie from dominating the Twins. With players on the move, there’s still no sign of Michael Saunders in the outfield. Bigger news was the return of Franklin Gutierrez.
