Angels vs Mariners: Ohtani and Angels Attempt to Shut Down Red-Hot Mariner’s Offense

• The Angels are fourth in pitching wins (3), third in ERA (1.29), and fourth in quality starts (2)

• The Mariners have stolen six bases this season.

• Shohei Ohtani had a 0.95 ERA against Seattle in 2022

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Angels vs Mariners Pick

• Mariners Moneyline (-120) 

The Angels have looked seem to be vastly improved this season, but this Seattle team could be something special. Their lineup is deep and provides a ton of power. They needed a breakout game and got it last night. Look for this newfound confidence to carry over and lead them to their first series win on Sunday.

The Angels bats have now had two games where they have disappeared. We don’t expect them to be shut down by Flexen, but he will be able to manage them decently. The key will be how long he can go for, as the Mariner's bullpen is questionable. They, too are better than they have played, so we are expecting a solid performance during a crucial early-season division game.

Ohtani dominated against the Mariners last season, but this lineup has gotten even better. Expect their newfound confidence to carry over to generate just enough against him. That will get them to Angel’s bullpen, which can be beaten.

Los Angeles Angels Preview

Last night’s blowout loss to Seattle was painful to watch, but there is still much reason for optimism with this team. They took the first game by scoring seven runs on 11 hits. They also allowed just two earned runs and saw their bullpen throw over four scoreless innings. They moved to 3-1 and looked like a wildcard contender. That was not the case last night as they lost 11-2. The Mariners had struggled to get going this season, but last night ended the mini-slump. Fortunately, the Angels will have Shohei Ohtani on the mound. They’ll need their bats to rebound to give the superstar the first win of the season.

The offense was fantastic in the opening game, but it completely disappeared last night. They looked lost, which isn’t uncommon against Luis Castillo. The good news is that leadoff man Taylor Ward has been on a tear to begin the season. He is 3-8 with a home run and has an average of over .400 to begin the season. His play is going to give Mike Trout and Ohtani more chances for RBIs and give this offense more life than it’s had in years.

The Mariners shelled the Angels for 11 runs last night, but they only used two pitchers. Jose Suarez and Paul Sewald both pitched poorly, but the Angels let them work and will have a fresh bullpen for the series finale. On top of that, they’ll have Ohtani on the mound. The starter was fantastic in his first start, but a lack of run support led to a loss for the Angels. If there is one pitcher you want to cool down this Seattle lineup, it’s Ohtani.

Seattle Mariners Preview

After starting the season 1-4, Seattle finally had the breakout game that they had been waiting for. They scored a whopping 11 runs and went deep four times. Ace Luis Castillo had another scoreless start, striking out six as they clobbered the Angels. After coming in with the expectation to contend in the AL, the Mariners struggled to open the season. Now they’ll look to build on their breakout game against Shohei Ohtani and the Angels on Wednesday.

The Mariners managed just five hits in their Monday game but put up 13 last night. Everyone got involved, with Teoscar Hernandez and AJ Pollock leading the way with two home runs apiece. Hernandez’s breakout was the most promising sign, as the young right fielder is supposed to be an anchor in the lineup this season. His average is now up to .143. 

Chris Flexen will take the mound tonight looking to build on a solid first start. He allowed one run over four innings but gave up four hits and three walks. Control has been a bit of an issue for Flexen despite having a solid 2022 season, where he ended with a 3.73 ERA. The bigger concern is the Seattle bullpen, as they have been giving up big innings so far this season. They have given up eight runs over their six games, including two in last night’s blowout win.

How to Watch Angels vs Mariners

• What: Los Angeles Angels vs Seattle Mariners

• When: Wednesday, April 4 at 4:10 PM EST

• Where: T-Moble Park in Seattle, Washington

• How to Watch: Bally West, Root Sports Northwest, MLB.TV

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