As the Mariners prepare to face the Cleveland Guardians for Game #135 on August 29, 2025, there’s a sense of anticipation surrounding this matchup. Following a relatively short homestand where the team solidified its playoff aspirations, the Mariners will now embark on a challenging three-series, nine-game road trip. This journey will take them through Cleveland, Tampa Bay, and Atlanta, and fans are hopeful for a better showing than the last time the Mariners ventured East.
This particular game against the Guardians presents an intriguing opportunity. Cleveland has recently struggled after spending a brief moment in the Wild Card race, now finding themselves five games back from a potential playoff spot. This situation signals to the Mariners, who are aiming for postseason contention, that they need to capitalize on facing a scuffling opponent.
One of the keys to the game will be the performance of Mariners’ starter, George Kirby. With this being his 18th start of the season,
Kirby has had a rollercoaster year but showed promise in his last outing, pitching six innings of one-run baseball. His ability to bounce back from adversity, demonstrated through small mistakes like walks or larger setbacks such as his tough outing against the Mets on August 17, will be critical. Mariners fans are looking forward to a strong, aggressive showing from Kirby, who has matured significantly over the course of the season.
On the opposing side, the Guardians will send Logan Allen to the mound. Allen, a lefty, has a less intimidating fastball, averaging around 91.1 mph. This should give the Mariners some confidence, especially after their recent success against left-handed pitching. If they can exploit Allen’s weaknesses and take advantage of the Guardians’ current struggles, they have a solid chance to secure a victory.
One notable development impacting the Mariners is Victor Robles’ suspension. Initially set for ten games, it has been appealed down to seven, meaning Robles will miss this game but is expected to return for the early Sunday matchup against the Braves. The Mariners will need to navigate this absence while maintaining their competitive edge. Fortunately, with roster expansions looming on September 1, the impact may be mitigated, giving the team additional flexibility.
As for the logistics of the game, first pitch is slated for 4:10 PM PT, a slightly adjusted time to accommodate the Mariners’ travel schedule. Fans can tune in to ROOT Sports, where Aaron Goldsmith and Angie Mentink will provide coverage, with Brad Adam reporting from the field. Alternatively, the game can be heard on Seattle Sports 710 AM, featuring Rick Rizzs and Gary Hill Jr. This accessibility allows both local fans and those following from afar to stay engaged with the game.
A glance back at Mariners’ history shows a rich tapestry of significant moments on August 29. In 1982, Gaylord Perry tied the Major League record for the most seasons with 100 or more strikeouts, solidifying his place in baseball lore. In 1990, the Mariners made headlines by signing free agent Ken Griffey Sr., a pivotal move that allowed him and his son, Ken Griffey Jr., to play together—a remarkable milestone in MLB history. Other notable events include key victories and record-setting performances, showcasing how this date has often been one of excitement and achievement for the Mariners.
As the Seattle Mariners approach Game #135 against the Cleveland Guardians, the stakes are high. The Mariners are on the cusp of what could be a pivotal series in their quest for the playoffs, and every game counts as the season draws to a close. With George Kirby on the mound and the Guardians reeling from recent underperformance, fans are hopeful for a victory that takes them one step closer to postseason baseball.
In summary, this matchup is about more than just the game; it represents a wider narrative for the Mariners this season. With the opportunity to gain ground in the playoff race against a struggling opponent, the Mariners must deliver on their potential. Kirby’s growth as a pitcher, combined with the Mariners’ offensive adjustments against left-handed pitchers, puts them in a prime position to succeed. As they step onto the field in Cleveland, the focus will be on turning opportunities into victories, propelling them toward their playoff aspirations with each pitch and swing they take.
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