The Seattle Mariners enter Tuesday’s matchup against the Kansas City Royals with a 42–39 record and a growing sense of confidence, fueled by a combination of power hitting and solid pitching that has helped them stay competitive in a tightly contested AL West. Coming off a convincing 6–2 win over the Royals in the series opener, the Mariners once again showcased the offensive spark that has carried them through much of June and early July, with Randy Arozarena going deep twice and Cal Raleigh crushing his 33rd home run of the season to extend his lead atop the league’s home run leaderboard. Raleigh’s emergence as a true middle-of-the-order threat has transformed Seattle’s lineup, giving manager Dan Wilson a dangerous weapon capable of shifting games with one swing, while Arozarena’s addition has given them speed, energy, and crucial production in key moments. George Kirby delivered another quality start in that win, holding the Royals to just one run over six efficient innings, continuing his strong 2025 campaign that has made him the team’s most dependable rotation anchor. The Mariners’ pitching staff has been one of the most consistent in the American League, not just because of its rotation but also due to a bullpen that has repeatedly locked down close games with sharp command and minimal walks.

The likes of Andrés Muñoz and Gabe Speier have thrived in late innings, while the entire bullpen unit has succeeded in limiting home runs and inherited runners. On the offensive side, Seattle has hit the Game Total Over in 36 of their last 63 games, a trend that reflects their improving ability to string together base hits and capitalize with runners in scoring position. Their home-field advantage has been evident as well, with the team feeding off the energy at T-Mobile Park and playing sharper, more focused baseball in front of their fans. Seattle’s defense has been reliable, limiting extra outs and turning double plays efficiently, which has played a key role in supporting their pitching staff. The Mariners also hold a strong recent record against Kansas City, winning four of their last five head-to-head meetings and generally outmatching the Royals in every key statistical category. Looking ahead to Tuesday, the Mariners will aim to continue their recent run of form by jumping out early against a Royals squad that’s struggled to score and has shown cracks in both pitching and defense. If Seattle can maintain plate discipline and force Kansas City’s starters into high-stress innings early, it’s likely they’ll once again control the tempo and build a lead that allows their bullpen to take over in the late innings. With the standings beginning to tighten and the trade deadline looming, every win carries added weight, and the Mariners know they can’t afford to drop games against sub-.500 opponents. The Royals may be reeling, but Seattle’s task is to remain sharp, focused, and aggressive from first pitch to final out to ensure they don’t give their opponents a chance to regain confidence.