Sedao's Insight

Mariners vs ChiSox 4/29/09 April 30, 2009

I am off this week.  Not giving my predictions or anything.  Today was an unfortunate battle for the M’s   after leading after the 5th inning they Bedard allows 2 more runs in the 6th before Kelley comes in to close the game out.  The worst part about the game is my boy Mark Lowe is blowing it.  I thought he was going to get back to where he was 2-3 years ago.  His stuff is there hitting 98mph but the movement might not be there and he might not be able to continue pitching well if his arm can’t keep up.  Giving up a hit and walk in an inning is tough which is why he gave up a run bringing his ERA up to 4.32.  He still can blow it by people by getting 2 strikeouts that inning but when he can’t just put it past someone they sure make him pay. 

My biggest qualms with Bedard is the longevity of his arm.  I think he is a big asset to the team but will he be able to pitch 200 innings?…  Most likely I think if he gets 150 innings it will be a good year for him.  However if he stays healthy for the year that gives the Mariners 2 very high quality pitchers.  Complimented with their bullpen and closer(s) this team might just make the playoffs this year. 

I am stating it right now the Mariners will win at least 90 games this year and if that is good enough to get into the playoffs they will go.  However the biggest problem for them will be a healthy Angels team.  Oakland won’t be much of a team especially since their best pitchers are all gone and Duchscherer  is hurt.  Texas has some quality players but they can’t make it just with Kevin Millwood pitching for them. 

In the AL west they need to start winning games and not allowing teams to come back obviously.