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Guardians vs Mariners Picks and Predictions — August 30, 2025
The Cleveland Guardians enter a critical three-game series against the Seattle Mariners Friday night at Progressive Field with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread. Seattle holds the final AL Wild Card spot, sitting five games ahead of Cleveland.
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Friday’s opener features Logan Allen (7-10, 4.35 ERA) against George Kirby (8-6, 4.05 ERA) in a matchup that could set the tone for both clubs’ September push. For recent performances and streaks, check the latest MLB game results.
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Cleveland Can Win If…
Their young lineup provides run support and Allen rebounds from his rough outing. The lefty was shelled for nine runs in Texas last Saturday, but historically he’s fared well against Seattle (2-0, 2.13 ERA in two career starts).
“It’s going to propel us forward and inject a lot of energy and confidence into this clubhouse,” Slade Cecconi said after Cleveland’s comeback win over Tampa Bay.
Kyle Manzardo and Nolan Jones delivered clutch hits Wednesday, and the Guardians need that same timely hitting to crack Kirby.
Seattle Can Win If…
George Kirby stays sharp and the middle of the order delivers. Kirby has posted a 3.20 ERA across his last 10 starts, aside from one stumble against the Mets, and has been excellent on the road against Cleveland (2.00 ERA in two Progressive Field appearances).
“We have to do the little things and try to win games,” Eugenio Suarez said after homering in back-to-back contests.
Seattle has power with Cal Raleigh (50 HRs) and Suarez (104 RBIs), but consistency is key. If the bats heat up, the Mariners can maintain control of the Wild Card race.
Key MLB Betting Trends
| Category | Guardians | Mariners |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 65-70 | 72-63 |
| Last 10 Games | 5-5 | 6-4 |
| Runs Per Game | 4.2 | 4.7 |
| Team ERA | 4.22 | 3.81 |
| Series Record 2025 | First Meeting | First Meeting |
The Lean
Pick: Mariners -125
Projected Final Score: Mariners 5, Guardians 3
Cleveland is desperate, but Kirby’s steadiness and Seattle’s deeper lineup tilt the edge to the visitors. The Guardians will compete, but the Mariners’ balanced attack and late-game experience should carry them to a crucial series-opening win.
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