The Seattle Mariners are gearing up for the third and final game of their series with the Detroit Tigers.
Detroit took the first contest by a score of 8-0 before the Mariners evened the series with a 4-2 win on Wednesday. So heading into the rubber match, both sides will be eager to take the series.
Mariners Make Taylor Ward Decision
Heading into the contest, the Mariners have dropped the lineup, with some big changes. Outfielder Taylor Ward will be leading off for Seattle after batting in the eight hole last night.
Ward also batted No. 8 on Tuesday night, which was his debut for the Mariners. Seattle acquired the outfielder from the Baltimore Orioles ahead of the trade deadline expiring.
Here’s how we’re lining up in today’s matinee matchup! #TridentsUp pic.twitter.com/MUU6puZJup
— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) August 6, 2026
So far, Ward has gone 1-for-6 with the Mariners over his first two games. The slugger has recorded two strikeouts in this time, so the outfielder will be looking for a bounce-back performance in this matchup.
On the year, Ward has hit .245 with seven home runs and 30 RBIs, while posting an OPS of .725. After a breakout year in 2025 with the Los Angeles Angels, Ward hasn’t been able to replicate the success.
Ward hit 36 home runs with 103 RBIs with the Angels in 2025, but the team decided to move on from him. After a disappointing start for the Orioles, Baltimore shipped Ward to the Mariners, giving Seattle a little more offense for the stretch run.
Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto commented on the trade for Ward. Dipoto pointed out Ward’s ability to get on base and his history against left-handed hitters.
“We feel like with Taylor Ward, we got at least—if not the best right-hand bat that moved at this deadline, certainly on the short list of the best right-hand bats,” Dipoto said. “Obviously, an everyday player who can handle both, but he’s particularly good against lefties.”
Over his career, Ward has a 130 wRC+ against lefties. This could be a weapon for the Mariners to use moving forward, offering the team some needed offense.
Mariners Rest of Season Outlook
Seattle opened the year on a tough note following a deep playoff run last season. But the Mariners have turned things around, putting themselves squarely into the playoff race in the American League.
Overall, the Mariners hold a record of 56-59 on the season, currently sitting in third place within the AL West. But Seattle is just 2.5 games back of the first-place Houston Astros, offering them a chance to go on a run late in the year.
The Mariners still have much of the same talent from a year ago when they reached the ALCS. But this team has been inconsistent this season, especially on offense.
If the Mariners’ offense can take that needed step, this could be a dangerous team once again. After gaining the experience last year, if Seattle were to get into the playoffs, anything can happen, and this is a team that nobody would want to face off against.
Mariners Reveal Taylor Ward Decision Ahead of Game vs Tigers