Mariners vs Royals: A Historic Clash in Kansas City

Introduction

The Seattle Mariners and Kansas City Royals are set to face off in a pivotal three-game series at Kauffman Stadium, beginning today, September 17, 2025. With both teams vying for postseason positioning, this matchup carries significant implications for their playoff aspirations.

Mariners’ Momentum

The Mariners enter this series on a red-hot 10-game winning streak, the longest active streak in Major League Baseball. Their recent surge has propelled them to the top of the American League West standings, marking their first division lead this late in the season since 2001.

Key Performers:

• Cal Raleigh: The Mariners’ catcher has been a revelation this season. In their recent 12-5 victory over the Royals, Raleigh hit two home runs, breaking Mickey Mantle’s 1961 record for most home runs in a single season by a switch hitter and tying the Mariners’ franchise record set by Ken Griffey Jr.

• Dominic Canzone: Canzone had a historic performance, going 5-for-5 with three home runs and five RBIs, becoming only the second player in Mariners history to record five hits and three home runs in a game MLB.com.

• Logan Gilbert: The Mariners’ starting pitcher allowed two runs over 5 2/3 innings, contributing to the team’s dominant win.

Royals’ Struggles

The Royals, on the other hand, have been facing challenges. Their pitching staff has struggled, particularly in the recent loss to the Mariners, where Michael Wacha and Daniel Lynch IV combined to allow 10 runs in the first four innings.

Bright Spot:

• Carter Jensen: Despite the team’s overall struggles, rookie Carter Jensen showcased his potential by hitting his first two major league home runs in the game against the Mariners, with impressive exit velocities.

Head-to-Head Matchup

Historically, the Mariners and Royals have been closely matched. In their last 10 meetings, both teams have won five games each, with the Mariners batting .274 as a team in those contests.

Game Preview: September 17, 2025

Probable Pitchers:

• Mariners: Logan Gilbert (11-6, 3.45 ERA)

• Royals: Michael Wacha (6-8, 4.15 ERA)

Game Time: 4:40 PM PDT

Venue: Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, MO

Broadcast: FDSKC and ROOT Sports NW

Prediction

Given the Mariners’ current form and the Royals’ recent struggles, Seattle enters this matchup as the favorite. However, the Royals will look to bounce back and leverage their home-field advantage. This game promises to be a compelling contest with playoff implications on the line.