NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Prediction 
Odds 
Last Recap 
Game Picks 
Top Handicapper 
Mariners vs Royals Picks and Predictions — September 18, 2025
The Seattle Mariners travel to Kauffman Stadium to face the Kansas City Royals on Thursday night. Seattle (83-69) is fighting for playoff positioning in the AL West, having won nine of its last ten before dropping Wednesday’s contest. Kansas City (76-76) remains at .500 and looks to build off a 7-5 win in the series opener, as shown in the recent MLB scoreboards.
Don’t Miss Today’s Winning Card!
Fresh predictions daily
Opening odds:
- Moneyline: Mariners −123, Royals +105
- Runline: Mariners −1.5 (+129), Royals +1.5 (−154)
- Total (Over/Under): 9.0 runs
Want sharp insights on MLB playoff races? Check our MLB Predictions Hub →
Mariners Can Win If…
- Luis Castillo pitches to his form. With a 3.76 ERA, Castillo gives Seattle a veteran edge on the mound and can stabilize the game after Wednesday’s defeat.
- The lineup leans on power. Seattle ranks 2nd in MLB with 223 home runs, led by Cal Raleigh’s league-best 56 bombs.
- Supporting bats keep contributing. Eugenio Suárez went 4-for-4 with a homer in the last meeting, and J.P. Crawford also went deep — that balance matters against Kansas City’s staff.
“We know our offense can break games open with one swing,” Mariners coaches said earlier this season.
Royals Can Win If…
- Stephen Kolek delivers another steady outing. He enters with a 3.71 ERA and a 1.20 WHIP, capable of matching Castillo pitch-for-pitch.
- Their lineup stays aggressive. KC ranks 4th in doubles (267) and got key blasts from Salvador Perez and Adam Frazier in their 7-5 win Wednesday.
- Vinnie Pasquantino continues producing. With 30 HR and 104 RBIs, he anchors an offense that thrives on extra-base hits.
“We have guys who can drive the ball and change the game quickly,” Royals staff noted after their series-opening victory.
Key MLB Betting Trends
| Category | Seattle Mariners | Kansas City Royals |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 83-69 (2nd AL West) | 76-76 (3rd AL Central) |
| Last 10 Games | 9-1 (lost last game) | 3-7 (won last game) |
| Runs Per Game | 4.7 | 4.5 |
| ERA / Opp Runs | 3.91 ERA (9th) | 4.12 ERA (15th) |
| Home/Away Record | 38-40 (Away) | 42-36 (Home) |
| Bullpen Edge | 3.62 ERA (7th) | 4.33 ERA (19th) |
The Lean
Pick: Mariners Moneyline (−123)
Projected Final Score: Mariners 5, Royals 4
Total Lean: Under 9.0
Reasoning: Seattle’s form and lineup power give them the advantage, especially with Castillo on the hill. Kansas City has shown pop, but Seattle’s bullpen and late-game execution are more trustworthy. Expect a close game, but the Mariners’ edge in power and relief pitching tips the balance their way.
Stay sharp with all late-season action in our MLB Best Bets hub.
Best Bet Box
| Best Bet Category | Selection |
|---|---|
| Best Bet | Mariners Moneyline (−123) |
| Confidence Rating | ★★★★☆ |
| Projected Final Score | Mariners 5, Royals 4 |
| Total Lean | Under 9.0 |
