The New York Yankees (88-63, 78-73 RL, 80-65-6 O/U) are set to face the Seattle Mariners (77-74, 63-88 RL, 70-70-11 O/U) in the final game of a three-game series on Thursday afternoon. Clarke Schmidt will take the mound for the Yankees, while Logan Gilbert will pitch for the Mariners. The Yankees currently lead the season series 3-2 as they enter Wednesday evening.
For the best insights on MLB Picks, readers can rely on expert analysis!
Yankees Solidify Their Division Lead
Clarke Schmidt will be the starting pitcher for New York on Thursday. In his last outing, Schmidt limited the Red Sox to only two runs in 5.2 innings, a performance that resulted in a no-decision. Since returning from the injured list earlier this month, the young right-hander has allowed just two runs in 10.1 innings, boasting an impressive 2.41 ERA and a 1.13 WHIP along with a 5-3 record over 71 innings pitched. In previous matchups against Seattle, Schmidt gave up only two runs in five innings back in May and has demonstrated a solid performance against them with just two runs allowed in 10.2 innings across his career.
The Yankees are currently in first place in the AL East, extending their lead to four games over the Orioles. They have captured victories in three consecutive series, including a strong home series win against the Red Sox last weekend, where they allowed Boston just 14 runs. In their last game against the Mariners, they achieved a decisive 11-2 victory. The Yankees have an impressive record, sitting 16 games above .500 when playing on the road.
Giancarlo Stanton, known for his streaky batting, is expected to heat up as the season winds down. Although he has only managed four RBIs and a .651 OPS this month, Stanton has hit 25 home runs with 66 RBIs and a .770 OPS for the season. His performance against the Mariners has been less than stellar, yielding a .647 OPS. Meanwhile, Aaron Judge continues to shine with 53 home runs, 136 RBIs, and an exceptional 1.14 OPS.
On average, New York scores 5.02 runs per game, ranking them third in the league. Their pitching staff maintains a 3.76 ERA, placing them eighth overall.
Need expert help with MLB? Check out the Best MLB Cappers!
Mariners Eye Wild Card Spot
Logan Gilbert will take the mound for the Mariners on Thursday. In his last performance, he struggled, giving up four runs on six hits over six innings against the Rangers, ultimately ending in a no-decision. This month, Gilbert has a less-than-ideal 4.50 ERA in three appearances. Overall, his season stats include a 3.24 ERA and a 0.89 WHIP, alongside a 7-11 record across 191.2 innings. In his previous outing against the Yankees, he allowed three runs in six innings, and he has struggled historically against them with a 7.18 ERA in 26.1 career innings.
Seattle is currently in a competitive position for a wild card spot but faces a tough road, sitting four games back. They have shown improvement, winning three out of their last four series. Over the past weekend, the Mariners achieved three wins in four games against the Rangers, allowing only 13 runs. At home, the team boasts a solid record, sitting 14 games above .500.
Randy Arozarena has emerged as a key contributor, amassing 10 RBIs this month. Since joining the team in July, his overall performance has been average, with 20 home runs, 57 RBIs, and a .726 OPS. However, against the Yankees this season, Arozarena has excelled, hitting five home runs and driving in 10 RBIs with a notable .931 OPS.
On the season, Seattle averages 4.10 runs per game, ranking them 24th in the league. Their pitching staff, however, excels with a 3.54 ERA, leading all major league teams.
Predictions for Yankees vs. Mariners
The New York Yankees are currently on fire, winning five of their last six games and are on the verge of clinching a divisional title, holding a four-game lead over the Orioles. Meanwhile, the Seattle Mariners have shown flashes of brilliance but remain inconsistent at the plate.
Yankees pitcher Clarke Schmidt has been impressive in his last two outings since returning from injury, allowing only two runs over 10.1 innings against strong offensive teams like the Cubs and Red Sox. Historically, he has limited Seattle to just two runs in 10.2 career innings. Conversely, Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert has struggled against New York, allowing 23 runs in 26.1 career innings.
