The Seattle Times · Mar 26, 2019
In final tuneup before home opener, Mariners fall to Padres in speedy outing
The combination of the final game of the spring and Wade LeBlanc’s ability to throw pitches that seem really hittable until they aren’t made for a pace of play on Tuesday afternoon that would make Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred smile.
With the entire league slated to play Thursday in what will be opening day for everyone other than the Mariners and the A’s, the last game of spring is one where expected regulars play sparingly and many a first pitch is put into play.
The Padres’ 1-0 victory over the Mainers on Tuesday was quite reflective of that. It took just 2 hours and 21 minutes to play nine innings.