7/20/19: Open Game Thread

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the opener returns

Well, tonight’s game is almost guaranteed not to be as fun as last night’s, but here we are nonetheless.

After struggling in his traditional start last time out, Wade LeBlanc once again will follow an opener. Matt Wisler will become the sixth different pitcher Seattle has tried in the role, and with a clean outing tonight, could position himself to be the best option. Or not. These sample sizes are absurdly small.

After exiting with a sore thumb last night, Mallex Smith is right back in the lineup in his usual leadoff spot. With Austin Nola manning first, Tim Beckham finds himself starting in left field for the first time in his career. Though he’s been ice-cold since mid-April, Beckham’s power has stayed with him all season, and it’s still possible a team absolutely desperate for infield - and hey, maybe outfield if he does well there tonight - help might want him by the end of the month.

Please at least get a series win, you guys. They’re good for the soul.

Game Time: 6:10 PDT

TV: ROOTNW, MLB.tv

Radio: 710 ESPN, MLB At Bat