Seattle Mariners Game 33: Mariners 7 Rangers 3

FINALLY! Hopefully that was all they needed was to get back in the win column. We scored runs in every one of the first three innings. Shocking, I know. This team has struggled to do anything for weeks. Ibanez doubled in 2 runs in the first inning. Lopez singled in a run in the second. In the 3rd Richie hit a solo HR which was followed 4 batters later with a 3 run shot from Wlad Balentien. 7 runs in only 3 innings. We didn't really do much offensively after that but who cares really. 7 runs for any team in a ball game is good news, for the M's that is outstanding news.

Washburn pitched a great game until he left in the 7th inning with tightness in his calf. Turns out Washburn had actually strained his calf while warming up in the bullpen before the game. Pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre kept a close watch on him throughout the game. Once it appeared that Washburn was once again being affected by the calf he was removed from the game. He ended up pitch 6 strong innings with only 4 hits, 3 earned runs and 3 strikeouts. No walks for him in this game. He was pretty much in control the entire night.

Green and Putz closed out the last 3 innings. JJ was a little shaky again in the 9th but managed to shut things down.

Big win for this team. They should beat teams like Texas. There is NO reason this team should have even close to the same record as the Rangers. It is time they find some consistency. One win isn't good enough. They need to continue hitting and winning to get themselves back into the race. If their May looks anything like their April we could be in for a LOOOOOOOOOOOONG season.

Tonight Batista looks to continue his strong pitching and lead the M's to another victory. He will take the mound opposite Ponson for the Rangers.