Today’s pitching matchup doesn’t come with the fanfare that would acompany baseball’s biggest pitching names, but Bryan Woo v. Michael King absolutely belongs on a marquee. Among the 96 starters who’ve thrown at least 150 innings over the past two years, they rank number 9 and number 7, respectively by xERA, each the best in his respective division. By FIP-, they’re 17th and 18th. It’s a matchup befitting the pomp and grandeur of the Vedder Cup.
The formula for the Mariners’ victories in the first two games has been excellent starting pitching, the offense relying on the long ball, and a lock down bullpen.