Fri Jul 04 04:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Mariners Grind Out 3-2 Victory Over Royals, Extend Wild Card Lead

**Seattle, WA** – The Seattle Mariners secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday night, extending their lead in the American League Wild Card race to 2.5 games. In a game where star catcher Cal Raleigh rested, other key players stepped up to secure the win.

Starting pitcher Logan Gilbert, while not at his sharpest, battled through 4.2 innings, allowing just one run while striking out seven. Gilbert acknowledged his performance wasn’t up to his usual standards but focused on the positives. “It’s so easy to get frustrated, especially with my standards, so I have to be careful. And just try to look at the positives,” Gilbert said.

The Mariners’ bullpen proved crucial, with Gabe Speier and Carlos Vargas delivering scoreless innings. Despite Matt Brash surrendering his first earned run of the season, he managed to hold onto the lead, while Andrés Muñoz shut the door in the ninth for the save.

Randy Arozarena continued his strong play, blasting a solo home run to tie the game. In the seventh, Ben Williamson doubled and advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt by J.P. Crawford. Julio Rodríguez then delivered a clutch single, driving in Williamson for the go-ahead run. Arozarena followed with a sacrifice fly, extending the lead to 3-1.

The Royals managed to score a run in the eighth, but Muñoz slammed the door to secure the win.

The Mariners will look to continue their winning ways as they fight for a playoff spot in a crowded American League Wild Card race.

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