Kansas City, MO – September 16, 2025 — The Seattle Mariners open a pivotal series against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium this week, looking to gain ground in the American League Wild Card race. First pitch for the opener is scheduled for 4:40 p.m. PT, with Logan Gilbert set to start for Seattle opposite veteran right-hander Michael Wacha.
Recent History at Kauffman Stadium
Seattle holds a 5–5 record at Kauffman Stadium since 2022, but the club arrives with some key roster changes. This series marks the first without Ty France, who has historically torched Royals pitching at this venue with an incredible 285 wRC+ across a minimum of 30 career plate appearances.
The Mariners will lean heavily on Julio Rodríguez, another hitter who has thrived in Kansas City. Rodríguez famously set a Major League Baseball record in 2023 by recording 17 hits in a four-game stretch, breaking a mark that stood for decades.
Pitching Matchup to Watch
- Seattle Starter – Logan Gilbert: Known for his consistency and strike-throwing ability, Gilbert will be tasked with containing a Kansas City lineup that has shown surprising power at home.
- Kansas City Starter – Michael Wacha: The veteran righty brings postseason experience and a mix of off-speed pitches designed to neutralize Seattle’s right-handed bats.
Rising Star: Colt Emerson
Beyond the Major League club, the Mariners’ farm system is also making headlines. Colt Emerson, one of Seattle’s top prospects, was recently promoted to Triple-A Tacoma and wasted no time making an impact, homering in his debut. Emerson posted a 133 wRC+ in Double-A Arkansas, demonstrating impressive plate discipline and power for a young hitter.
What’s at Stake
Seattle enters the series battling for playoff positioning in the AL Wild Card race, while Kansas City seeks to play spoiler and continue building momentum behind a rejuvenated offense. With Gilbert on the mound and Rodríguez heating up, the Mariners are looking to take control early.
