Mariners Update: 8/12/02

Just thought I'd check in with a quick update on the Mariners' season.  The past few weeks were pretty wild.  They finished up July with a winning record for the month, something that they hadn't accomplished for a while.  A few moves were made, but nothing earth-shattering.  Eric Thames looks like he might be helpful in the OF mix.  We also picked up some young pitching talent and a promising young Outfielder.  This team is just a hair's breadth away from being a serious contender.  The recent 7-game winning streak at home has unfortunately been followed by a 2-6 road trip through New York, Baltimore and Anaheim.  We have one more game to hopefully take the series against the Angels, with Vargas on the mound against Jered Weaver.  Weaver is 15-1 on the season, and is probably one of the top three pitchers in the league.  Jason Vargas took a hard-luck loss against Baltimore, but has been outstanding, posting a 12-8 record and 3.71 ERA on the year.  With the departures of Ichiro and Brandon League, the Mariners have cleared up enough salary space to make a serious run at the one or two veteran bats we need to get us over the hump into contention.  Our pitching staff is strong.  Once we get a veteran presence in the middle of our order, who can produce consistently, the sky is the limit.

One football note:  Anyone else think Matt Flynn was completely outplayed by Russell Wilson?  The guy looks great!  Good win over a talented Titans team, also!  I know it's only preseason, but a win is a win!