Mariners hope stars' bats will warm up vs. Angels

Published: Friday, April 3, 2026 at 12:36 am

Mariners Seek Offensive Spark in Series Against Angels

Seattle Mariners fans are hoping a change of scenery will ignite their team's offense as they head to Southern California for a three-game series against the Los Angeles Angels. The Mariners' bats have been cold to start the season, particularly for key hitters Cal Raleigh, Julio Rodriguez, and Josh Naylor. The trio has struggled, combining for a .090 batting average with just one extra-base hit and a concerning 30 strikeouts.

Raleigh, however, remains optimistic, attributing the slow start to a lack of timing and comfort in the batter's box. He believes the team will find its rhythm soon. All three players had their spring training shortened due to their participation in the World Baseball Classic.

Manager Dan Wilson acknowledged the team has faced tough pitching and challenging weather conditions, including cold temperatures during their home games. Despite the offensive struggles, Wilson expressed confidence in the team's ability to adjust and improve.

The Mariners are also facing increased scrutiny after a strong performance last season, where they nearly reached the World Series. Raleigh noted the heightened attention at the start of the season.

In a positive development, the Mariners activated shortstop J.P. Crawford from the injured list, and he is expected to make his season debut.

Meanwhile, the Angels are coming off a 3-4 road trip. A bright spot for the Angels has been the performance of Mike Trout, who is back in center field and displaying the form that made him an 11-time All-Star and three-time AL MVP.

Friday's pitching matchup will feature Mariners right-hander Bryan Woo against Angels lefty Reid Detmers. Woo has a strong track record against the Angels, while Detmers has struggled against Seattle.

BNN's Perspective:

While the Mariners' offensive struggles are concerning, it's still early in the season. The team has the talent to turn things around, and the return of Crawford should provide a boost. The Angels, with Trout leading the way, will be a tough opponent, but a series win could be just what the Mariners need to get their season on track.

Keywords: Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Angels, Cal Raleigh, Julio Rodriguez, Josh Naylor, Mike Trout, Bryan Woo, Reid Detmers, MLB, Baseball, Offense, Batting, J.P. Crawford, American League, AL MVP, World Baseball Classic, Spring Training

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