Mariners (Flexen) vs. A’s (Irvin)

At 7-3 in their last ten games and the Athletics the opposite, the Mariners are reeling in the A’s. This is a critical series if either team is to make a run for the postseason. Both Flexen (10-5, 3.65) and Irvin (9-11, 3.57) have been effective starters for their clubs. Flexen had some success vs Oakland the last time he faced them, allowing 2 runs over 6 innings. He is a good road pitcher, with a 2.20 ERA in his last 4 starts. Irvin has been equally sharp. Over his last three starts he has averaged 6 innings per outing and given up 8 earned runs. Irwin is 0-2 against the Mariners this year, allowing 4 run in each start.

Oakland is a middling hitting team, and relies on starting pitching and pen for success. Right now their bullpen is struggling and their record with it. It is hard to get a read on the Mariners at the moment. They have had some wild losses but not involving Flexen. They have had success against Irwin. Their bullpen has also struggled considerably of late. Based on Flexen’s past results and the A’s woes of late, I am wagering on Seattle in this game. They may need the extra runs, so take the Mariners + 1.5 today.