Paxton Primo In Mariners Matinee`

Ben Gamel corked a two-run HR in the 4th inning and that was all southpaw James Paxton needed to pitch the Mariners past the Houston Astros by a score of 4-1 on getaway day in Houston.

Paxton, who went 7 strong innings en route to his ninth victory, held AL West leading Houston and their powerful offense to just 6 hits whilst walking one and fanning seven batters. Edwin Diaz pitched the ninth to secure his fifth save in the last six days and 18th of the year.

With the win, Seattle clawed back to .500 on the season (48-48) and trail only the Minnesota Twins and the New York Yankees for the second Wild Card slot in the American League.

The Mariners head back to Seattle to open a 10-game homestand beginning with a four-game set against said Yankees, followed by Boston and the New York Mets.