Key Offensive Threats
The Seattle Mariners will be relying on their two star players, catcher Cal Raleigh and outfielder Julio Rodríguez, to provide a much-needed offensive spark in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series against the Toronto Blue Jays.
Raleigh, who led the MLB in home runs (60) and was third in RBIs (125) during the regular season, belted a crucial home run in the Mariners' Game 1 victory. The 28-year-old backstop will look to continue his power surge and drive in runs to keep Seattle's postseason hopes alive.
Meanwhile, Rodríguez has struggled at the plate so far in the ALCS, hitting just .217 with one home run. The Mariners have shuffled their lineup, moving the 23-year-old superstar down to the fifth spot in an effort to take pressure off him and jumpstart the offense. Rodríguez's ability to get on base and create havoc on the basepaths will be key if the Mariners hope to regain the series lead.
Pitching Concerns
The Mariners will also need a strong outing from their pitching staff, led by ace Luis Castillo, to contain the Blue Jays' potent lineup. Rookie right-hander Bryce Miller is expected to get the start in Game 5 after a solid performance in the ALDS.
However, the status of Bryan Woo remains uncertain. The All-Star right-hander has been sidelined with a pectoral injury since September and is listed as day-to-day for the ALCS. Woo's potential return could provide a much-needed boost to the Mariners' pitching rotation.
TL;DR
- Catcher Cal Raleigh and outfielder Julio Rodríguez will be key offensive threats for the Mariners in Game 5 of the ALCS
- The Mariners have shuffled their lineup, moving Rodríguez down to the fifth spot, in an effort to jumpstart their offense
- The Mariners' pitching staff, led by Luis Castillo, will need to contain the Blue Jays' powerful lineup
- The status of injured right-hander Bryan Woo remains uncertain for the ALCS