Rookie Logan Evans Gets the Ball as Mariners Seek Sweep Against Rangers
The Seattle Mariners have looked like a team ready to make serious noise in the AL West. Riding a wave of momentum and a six-game winning streak, they head into Sunday’s finale against the Texas Rangers with a chance to complete another series sweep — and they’ll do it with rookie Logan Evans on the hill.
The Mariners’ 2-1 victory on Saturday not only secured their eighth straight series win, it also handed the Rangers their fifth consecutive series loss, leaving Texas fans with more questions than answers as Jacob deGrom returns to the mound with hopes of salvaging the finale.
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Logan Evans Makes Second Start
Logan Evans, just 23 years old, will make his second career start after impressing in his debut last Sunday. The former 12th-round pick allowed just two runs over five innings in a 7-6 win over Miami, walking three and striking out three.
Evans was recently named Seattle’s Minor League Pitcher of the Month after posting a 1-1 record with a 3.86 ERA and 23 strikeouts in 25 2/3 innings at Triple-A Tacoma. What stood out most, however, was his calm presence on the mound.
“For a guy in his debut, he seemed very calm, very collected,” said manager Dan Wilson. “That’s what makes him successful.”
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deGrom Building Strength, Looks Sharp in Return
Jacob deGrom, who missed nearly two full seasons after Tommy John surgery, is slowly returning to form. In his most recent start, he pitched six shutout innings on just 65 pitches in a dominant 15-2 win over the Athletics.
The 35-year-old ace allowed just four singles, struck out seven, and walked none, earning his first victory since April 2023.
“The goal is to put up zeros,” deGrom said postgame. “Even with run support, it doesn’t change my approach.”
deGrom has faced Seattle five times in his career and holds a 1-1 record with a 2.66 ERA in those outings. He’s logged 30 strikeouts over 23 2/3 innings, and will aim to halt Texas’ skid while continuing his personal comeback tour.
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Mariners: Hot on Both Sides of the Ball
The Mariners have won eight of their last ten games, climbing quickly up the AL West standings. Their formula for success? Elite bullpen work, timely hitting, and consistently strong starts.
Saturday’s 2-1 win over Texas showcased their ability to win tight games — something that will be critical as the season rolls deeper into May.
Offensively, the Mariners continue to get balanced production across the lineup, while the pitching staff has posted the second-best ERA in the AL during their win streak.
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Rangers Skidding with deGrom as Their Best Hope
Texas enters Sunday’s contest having lost four in a row, seven of their last eight, and producing just three runs over their last four games.
With the defending champs suddenly reeling, deGrom’s start feels like a potential turning point — or breaking point — depending on how it plays out.
“At some point, it’s not early anymore,” said manager Bruce Bochy earlier this week. “We’ve got to get back to who we are.”
Texas hitters managed only five hits on Saturday, failing to capitalize on multiple opportunities. The top of the order has gone quiet, and their run differential continues to trend in the wrong direction.
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What to Watch For
Here are a few key matchups to monitor during Sunday’s finale:
- Can Logan Evans handle the pressure? This is a big ask for a second career start — a division road game against the defending champs.
- Will deGrom’s pitch count increase? He’s still building up stamina and is yet to eclipse 80 pitches in a start this year.
- Mariners bullpen dominance: Seattle’s relievers have a sub-2.00 ERA over their last ten games.
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Final Prediction
Seattle has all the momentum, but deGrom is capable of stopping even the hottest teams when he’s on. However, the Mariners’ consistency and timely pitching give them a slight edge.
Prediction: Mariners 4, Rangers 2