Home MLB MLB Game Recap: Mariners Shut Out Rangers 6-0 Behind Powerful Offense and Strong Pitching

MLB Game Recap: Mariners Shut Out Rangers 6-0 Behind Powerful Offense and Strong Pitching

July 31, 2025
MLB, Team Coverage

Seattle, WA (July 31, 2025) – The Seattle Mariners dominated the Texas Rangers 6-0 on Thursday night, fueled by a pair of home runs from Cal Raleigh and rookie Cole Young, and a stellar pitching performance by George Kirby. The Mariners’ offense came alive with timely hits, while Kirby stifled the Rangers’ bats over six strong innings.

Raleigh and Young Power Mariners to Early Lead

Seattle got on the board in the fourth inning, thanks to a key hit from Eugenio Suárez, who made his return to the Mariners’ lineup after being acquired from Arizona just the day before. Suárez doubled against Rangers starter Kumar Rocker, and then scored on a wild pitch to put Seattle ahead 1-0. Suárez, who played for the Mariners in 2022 and 2023, was making an immediate impact in his new uniform.

In the fifth inning, the Mariners extended their lead when Cole Young launched a two-run homer, his third of the season, to give Seattle a 3-0 advantage. Raleigh followed up with his major league-leading 42nd home run just two batters later, a solo shot that increased the Mariners’ lead to 4-0. Raleigh continues to prove why he’s one of the league’s top power hitters, with another huge blast to put Seattle in control.

Mariners Add Insurance Runs

Seattle wasn’t done yet, adding two more runs in the sixth inning. J.P. Crawford singled in a run, and Young followed up with an RBI triple, giving the Mariners a 6-0 lead. Young’s impressive game continued with his extra-base power, and he would score later on a passed ball to make it a commanding six-run advantage.

Kirby Shuts Down Rangers

George Kirby (6-5) was outstanding on the mound for the Mariners, limiting the Rangers to just three hits and two walks while striking out six in six innings of work. His ability to get out of tough situations, including stranding runners in scoring position, was key to keeping Texas off the scoreboard. The biggest test for Kirby came in the sixth inning when the Rangers put two runners in scoring position with two outs. Kirby rose to the occasion, getting Adolis Garcia to fly out to end the threat and preserve the shutout.

Strong Bullpen Performance

The Mariners’ bullpen was equally impressive. Caleb Ferguson, a trade deadline acquisition from Pittsburgh, made his debut with a perfect seventh inning. Trent Thornton pitched 1 2/3 innings before being carted off the field with an apparent lower left leg injury in the ninth. Despite the injury, Casey Legumina came in to get the final out and complete the four-hit shutout.

Rocker Struggles for Rangers

Rangers starter Kumar Rocker (4-5) had a rough outing, allowing three runs on six hits in 4 2/3 innings. Rocker struggled to find his rhythm, particularly after giving up back-to-back home runs in the fifth inning. He struck out five but was unable to limit the Mariners’ offense, ultimately taking the loss.

Injury Update: Rangers Without Jung

The Rangers were missing third baseman Josh Jung, who was sidelined due to left calf soreness. Jung’s absence was felt, especially as the Rangers’ offense struggled to get going against Kirby and the Mariners’ bullpen.

Key Moment

The key moment of the game came in the sixth inning when Kirby was faced with a jam after the Rangers placed the tying runs on second and third with two outs. Kirby showed composure, getting Garcia to fly out and escape the inning unscathed. It was a critical moment in the game that allowed the Mariners to maintain their shutout and control of the game.

Looking Ahead

With the win, the Mariners improve to 49-49 on the season, while the Rangers drop to 52-47. Seattle will look to build on this momentum as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the competitive AL West.

The Mariners will return to action on Friday night when they face the Texas Rangers again in the final game of their series. With the Mariners’ offense clicking and Kirby finding his groove, Seattle will look to close out the series with a series win.

Game Notes: