Sun Oct 05 01:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Mariners Confident Heading into ALDS, Emphasize Offensive Prowess
**SEATTLE -** Buoyed by a strong September and home-field advantage, the Seattle Mariners are entering the American League Division Series with a palpable sense of confidence, according to MLB.com’s Mariners beat reporter Daniel Kramer. Kramer recently conducted a Reddit “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) session with Mariners fans, offering insights into the team’s mindset and strategic approach.
While acknowledging the Detroit Tigers as a formidable opponent, the Mariners see a favorable path to the World Series. Kramer highlighted catcher Cal Raleigh’s emphasis on learning from their 2022 playoff experience and “finish[ing]” games, a lesson learned after their series against the Astros.
Surprisingly, Kramer pointed to the Mariners’ offense as their biggest strength heading into the postseason. Despite the team’s historical reliance on starting pitching, their ability to consistently hit home runs (ranking third in MLB) gives them “crooked-number potential,” a crucial factor in playoff baseball. First baseman Josh Naylor remarked on the power of the lineup, noting that “Everyone can hit a homer at any point in the game.” The team’s aggressive baserunning further enhances their ability to impact the game.
One potential weakness lies in the pitching rotation. With Bryan Woo’s availability uncertain, the Mariners face a decision regarding their fourth starter. Bryce Miller has been told to be “ready early” to pitch from the bullpen and potentially start later in the series. Logan Gilbert is expected to start Game 3, leaving the team to decide between Miller or George Kirby on short rest for Game 4.
Finally, top prospect Colt Emerson is with the team on the taxi squad. He would only be added to the roster in the event of an injury, most likely to shortstop J.P. Crawford. While Emerson would be their best alternative at the position, the team would have to decide whether to throw him into the October spotlight.
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