The Mariners (23-24) are one win away from reaching .500. Nick Blackburn (3-4 3.40 ERA) and the Minnesota Twins (15-31) will try their best to stop the streaking Mariners from making it happen. The Mariners current six game winning streak is tied for the best in baseball with the Arizona Diamondbacks also holding a six game winning streak.
Taking the mound for the Mariners is Doug Fister (2-4 2.93 ERA). Fister has pitched eight innings in two consecutive starts. He was masterful against the LA Angels in his last start on May 19, surrendering only one earned run on six hits. While he may not contain the elite stuff of other starters in the Mariners rotation, he has been equally effective this season.
Backup catcher Chris Gimenez who has caught Fister's last three starts said this about the tall right-hander:
Gimenez said Fister relies on "a bulldog attitude" and an improved cutter to keep opposing hitters off balance, while mixing in his sinker and changeup. ... "I know it's kind of a cliché, but that's the only way to put it," Gimenez said. "He's got that, 'Here-it-is' attitude. (Via: Mariners.com)
First pitch at Target Field is scheduled for 5:10 p.m. PT. with coverage on ROOT Sports and 710 ESPN AM.
For more news and information regarding the Mariners and tonight's game head on over to SB Nation's Mariners blog, Lookout Landing.