Can Health Finally Help the Mariners Break Their 24-Year Division Drought?

This season, the Seattle Mariners have shown impressive consistency on the mound. They’ve used just nine different starting pitchers, with seven of them taking the field for nearly every game. This stability has made their rotation one of the best in Major League Baseball. In comparison, the Houston Astros have turned to 15 different starters, while the Texas Rangers have used 10.

The Astros faced challenges in their pitching lineup. They gave 51 starts to Jason Alexander, Ryan Gusto, Colton Gordon, and Brandon Walter—players who weren’t expected to step into these roles this season. Although Alexander has been crucial to the team, collectively these four pitchers recorded a 4.67 ERA and 4.59 FIP over 267.2 innings.

For the Rangers, the situation took a hit when Corey Seager went down with an injury in late August. Since then, Josh Smith and Ezequiel Duran have combined for a 94 wRC+ at shortstop. That’s decent, but it’s a steep drop from having Seager, who was not only their top hitter but also the team’s emotional leader.

On the other hand, the Mariners haven’t had to deal with such worries. Their key players have consistently met expectations and stayed healthy. Last year, despite having the lowest rotation ERA, the Mariners missed the playoffs, making it feel like a lost opportunity for their talented starters.

Having two consecutive seasons of good health is impressive in today’s game, where injuries are common. Bryan Woo, Bryce Miller, George Kirby, Logan Gilbert, and Luis Castillo have pitched over 80% of the team’s innings this year, showcasing their durability and talent.

According to recent statistics from ESPN, player health can significantly impact team performance, with almost 50% of championship teams having a stable pitching rotation. This emphasizes how vital it is for teams like the Mariners to maintain their current level of health and performance.

In a world where injuries can often derail a season, the Mariners stand out. Their strong rotation has not only provided consistent performances but also turned them into serious contenders. As the season progresses, fans are eager to see how this stability will play out in the playoff race.

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