Kyle Hendricks and Mariners starter Bryce Miller entered the game with nearly identical ERA’s sitting around 5 and a quarter. So on paper this looked to be a tight game with some early runs scored. And that is was. Bonus storyline: Hendricks was seeking career win 100 tonight.
Seattle drew first blood in the top of the third but a Zach Neto single punched in Chris Taylor to knot the score at the end of 3.
Once again, the teams exchanged blows in the 4th inning. Seattle put two on the board to take a 3-1 lead then Travis d’Arnaud tied it in the bottom half of the frame.
Why not continue the trend? Seattle went up 4-3 on a Julio Rodriguez RBI triple in the 5th. Chris Taylor then doubled in a run before Nolan Schanuel punched in Taylor to take a 5-4 lead at the conclusion of 5.
The score didn’t change from there, largely due to the defense of Julio Rodriguez.
Chris Taylor had 2 hits, 2 runs scored, and the aforementioned RBI at that point. That’s s really good night that would have been a great night without that robbery.
Both bullpens were able to put up zeroes for a few frames. Hendricks left after 6 innings in position to get the win. Then Zeferjahn and Detmers held the line. Miller left after 5 for Seattle, followed by Kowar for an inning and Bazardo for two.
Enter Kenley Jansen for the save opportunity in the 9th. The active saves leader did what he does and shut the door.
Light up the Halo! And congratulations Kyle Hendricks!
