Wed Apr 02 02:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Mariners Aim for .500 Behind Gilbert Against Tigers’ Mize

**SEATTLE —** The Seattle Mariners look to rebound from a loss and return to a .500 record tonight as they face the Detroit Tigers. Opening Day starter Logan Gilbert takes the mound for Seattle, marking the first rotation turnover of the season. He’ll oppose Casey Mize, the Tigers’ 2018 first overall pick, in a pitching matchup featuring two former top draft selections.

While Gilbert has significantly outperformed Mize in terms of career WAR due to Mize’s injury history, the Tigers’ starter is expected to rely on contact management rather than strikeouts. The Tigers’ lineup will see several changes despite scoring nine runs in their previous game, reflecting manager A.J. Hinch’s strategic approach. Justyn-Henry Malloy will be benched, with Zach McKinstry moving to leadoff and third base.

The Mariners also feature a lineup alteration with Miles Mastrobuoni making his first start of the season, necessitated by Jorge Polanco’s absence due to his wife’s impending childbirth. Polanco will rejoin the team in San Francisco. Leo Rivas has been called up from Tacoma to fill Polanco’s roster spot. Additionally, Emerson Hancock has been optioned back to Tacoma, with Jhonathan Díaz being selected from Triple-A. Meanwhile, George Kirby is progressing well in his Arizona rehab assignment.

Manager Dan Wilson commented on Hancock’s previous difficult outing, attributing it to some bad luck on softly hit balls. He expressed confidence in Hancock’s continued development. The game will be broadcast on ROOT Sports NW and 710 AM Seattle Sports.

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