Mariners hold their own against Dodgers in two-game series

1) Gonzales returning to form

We wrote enough about Marco Gonzales when he struggled during the latter part of spring training and the beginning of the regular season. He seemed to turn it around in his last start, although some would argue it was only against the Baltimore Orioles.

However, no such claim can be made following Gonzales’ performance on Tuesday afternoon at T-Mobile Park. He was quite simply outstanding against the Dodgers and now appears to be getting back into his groove.

The 29-year-old was extremely unfortunate to take the loss on the day, as he allowed just two hits, a walk and one earned run. However, the Mariners’ bats had no answer to Julio Urias, who recorded a career-high 11 strikeouts.

Interestingly, Gonzales allowed the two hits and the walk all in the third inning, leading to the Dodgers only run of the game. Following this, he retired 13 straight batters before leaving the mound at the end of the seventh.

The 2013 first round draft pick tied his season high with six strikeouts. In total, he threw 101 pitches and you get the feeling he could have gone longer, not that it matters when the M’s bullpen is performing so well.

Speaking to the media afterwards, Gonzales was happy with how well the Mariners had competed with the Dodgers over the two games. He also discussed his match-up with Urias:

“You love the tempo; the back and forth. Julio was throwing the ball great and [I was] just trying to go out there and match him every inning.”

Gonzales went on to praise the effort of his defense, which included a spectacular run-saving catch for a second consecutive day by Moore. The pitcher said:

“I’ve been impressed with these guys all year long. Credit Perry Hill for getting these guys right and they’re really out there grinding every day … but what you’re seeing right now is just a testament to the work they’re putting in.”

Gonzales’ next start is scheduled against the Astros, who should be closer to full health after their recent bout of absences due to COVID-19. However, at least the M’s staff ace will enter the game with renewed confidence.

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