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Seattle Mariners: James Paxton continues where he left off

By Paul Taylor

May 31, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners starting pitcher James Paxton (65) reacts after getting the final out of the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
May 31, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners starting pitcher James Paxton (65) reacts after getting the final out of the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /
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James Paxton returns to the mound and provides a significant boost for the Seattle Mariners, as they win their fourth consecutive game.

The Seattle Mariners understandably hoped for a strong outing from James Paxton on Wednesday night. However, this cautious optimism was countered by the reality this was Paxton’s first start in nearly a month.

In that respect, the Mariners’ ace arguably did better than expected in his return to the mound, versus the Colorado Rockies. And when it was all said and done, he had helped his team win their fourth game in a row.

Paxton was excellent in his start against the Rockies, with 74 pitches over 5.1 innings, striking out six batters and allowing just three hits. More importantly, he gave up no runs or walks and earned the win – to improve to 4-0 on the season.

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The 28-year old’s velocity did start to slip as he progressed through his outing. However, this was unsurprising, with Wednesday night representing his first start since May 2.

Of course, the big question moving forward is whether Paxton can now stay healthy? Before going to the disabled list with a left forearm strain, he had already proved himself as the best pitcher in the rotation, leading the way in ERA, strikouts and WHIP.

For now though, the Mariners and their fans will just be happy the 2010 fourth round draft pick played well on Wednesday night. M’s manager Scott Servais discuss the performance with The Seattle Times‘ Jayson Jenks and other members of the media:

"“Obviously, before he got hurt, you could just see a different guy out there,” Servais said. “His confidence was growing, and he’s turned into a top-of-the-rotation stud. It’s great for our club. I think everybody felt it tonight when he took the mound. Dominant starting pitching does so much for your team. It just lifts everybody’s spirits. Guys offensively relax, they have good at-bats.”"

Servais’ comments regarding the bats was well-founded. Danny Valencia led the way with two RBI, as the Mariners totaled 10 hits and five runs.

However, Wednesday night was all about Paxton’s return to the mound. Speaking to Jenks and the rest of the media, he said:

"“It was really nice to just hop back out and feel that comfortable again on the mound.”"

With the win, the Mariners enter June just 3.5 games out of a wild card spot – a minor miracle considering all the injuries they’ve already endured this season. With key players starting to return from the casualty list, things are now looking up for Servais and the M’s.

Next: When will Mitch Haniger return?

Be honest – what kind of performance did you expect from Paxton on Wednesday night? Regardless, how hopeful are you that he can remain healthy as the Mariners look to make a concerted challenge for the postseason? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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