Every time we run into a game like this – usually it’s right when the Mariners have clawed their way back to .500 – I always make the comment about how I wish I was at a sportsbook, or about how I wish sports gambling were legal nationwide, because I’d make a fucking KILLING just betting against the Seattle Mariners.

Cooler thoughts prevail, and ultimately keep me from picking up everything and moving to Reno, because I know in the long run I’d make more stupid decisions than smart ones.  But, if I had the will power to ONLY bet on the sure things, I’d be a plenty rich guy.

The Mariners were never going to score more than a run, MAYBE two, against Chris Sale yesterday, and that was before we found out that Robinson Cano was getting the day off to rest.  That was before Mike Zunino got the day off after an extra innings night game.  That was before we brought in Danny Espinosa to be our utility infielder, who sure looks like an offensive downgrade to Motter (saying nothing of his base running or defensive abilities).

With that in mind, factoring in Andrew Moore was starting for the Mariners, there was no way he was holding the Red Sox to anything less than 4-5 runs.  So, do the math.  You could argue both bullpens were pretty tired after Tuesday night’s 13-inning affair, but you could also argue that the closer and late-inning relievers for the Red Sox are better and more consistent than that of the Mariners.

As such, it was ABSOLUTELY no surprise that Chris Sale went 7 shutout innings, giving up 3 hits & 1 walk, while striking out 11.  It was ABSOLUTELY no surprise that Andrew Moore gave up 4 runs in 6.2 innings (maybe a little surprising he was able to get into the 7th after giving up all those runs in the first four innings).  And, it was absolutely no surprise that the Mariners lost this one 4-0.  If I had any opportunity to put money on this game, I would’ve gladly put down everything in my bank account.

Off day today before a weekend home series against the Mets.  Kinda odd that everyone is treating this Mets series like we’re going up against the worst team in the National League; their record is VERY close to that of the Mariners!  I know the N.L. is inferior in general, but it’s not like the Mariners are some juggernaut.  It wouldn’t shock me in the slightest to see the M’s lay an egg this weekend and blow this series!

Now, I wouldn’t recommend it.  Because August Is Coming.  We’ve been staring at this month in our pocket calendars ever since we GOT our pocket calendars!  August actually kicks off on July 31st in Texas.  From that point, through August 30th, the Mariners play 21 of 28 games on the road.  A 9-game trip that starts in Texas, rolls through Kansas City, and concludes in Oakland (with 1 off-day in between KC and OAK).  Then, after a week of games at home, the Mariners have the final 3 Thursdays off for the rest of the month.  But, we’re looking at a 2-week, 12-game trip starting in Tampa, then going through Atlanta and New York (Yankees) before concluding in Baltimore.  It’s our final east coast trip of the season, and it’s BRUTAL.

So, you know, maybe take advantage of these home games against the Mets this weekend.  Maybe try to at least win 2 of 3 to not completely embarrass yourselves.  Or don’t.  Or just lose.  Either way.  This season is a lost cause anyway.