SEATTLE -- The Seattle Mariners officially kicked off their 2025 Major League Baseball season on Thursday, March 27, with high hopes and a fresh roster as they faced the Oakland Athletics at T-Mobile Park. The excitement was palpable as fans gathered for Opening Day festivities, eager to see how this revamped team would perform.
As the clock ticked closer to the first pitch at 7:10 p.m. PT, the Mariners unveiled their starting lineup, which featured a mix of familiar faces and new additions. Veteran shortstop J.P. Crawford is set to lead the infield once again, while Jorge Polanco, who transitioned from second base to third, will be a key player in the lineup. Ryan Bliss, a promising talent, earned the starting second base position, while Rowdy Tellez took the reins at first base. Luke Raley was designated as the team's designated hitter against Athletics' right-hander Luis Severino.
Mariners manager Dan Wilson expressed confidence in his team's flexibility and adaptability, stating, "We’re going to kind of just see how it goes as we go. We have some interchangeable parts, some versatility on the infield. And so we will continue to keep that a priority as we go." This approach reflects the Mariners' strategy to utilize their roster depth effectively throughout the long season.
Ryan Bliss, who made his MLB debut last May and appeared in 17 games last season, beat out competitors Dylan Moore and Leo Rivas for the second base job. His strong performance in spring training, where he hit .308 with four doubles and a triple in 39 at-bats during Cactus League play, solidified his position. Wilson praised Bliss, noting, "He’s been very consistent throughout spring training and is a guy on the bases who can really create some movement and he’s got good speed. So he’s an exciting player to watch and I’m excited for him here to be a part of this opening day."
Rowdy Tellez, who joined the Mariners on a minor league contract in February, emerged as a surprise asset during spring training, hitting .298 with three homers and four doubles in 47 at-bats. Wilson commented on Tellez's contributions, saying, "Both these guys obviously have played first base in spring, and Luke has done a great job along with Rowdy. It’s just kind of where it landed today in terms of that." Tellez's strong performance earned him the opening day start, and his presence adds depth to the Mariners' lineup.
As fans prepared for the game, they were treated to a pregame celebration at Victory Hall, featuring appearances from the Mariners' Trident, Salmon Run characters, and the Mariner Moose. The festivities began early, with fans encouraged to arrive at the park as gates opened at 4:30 p.m. for a happy hour, followed by the pregame ceremony at 6:30 p.m.
This year, T-Mobile Park has implemented a new security screening system called Evolv Express, designed to expedite entry for fans. With the Mariners aiming to enhance the fan experience, the new system allows attendees to keep items in their pockets and bags, creating a smoother entry process.
On the field, Logan Gilbert took the mound for the Mariners, marking his first Opening Day start. His counterpart, Luis Severino, was tasked with leading the Athletics. The Mariners entered the game as favorites with a moneyline of -172, while the Athletics were listed as underdogs at +145. The total runs for the game were set at 7, with the Mariners favored on the run line at -1.5.
Last season, the Mariners finished with a record of 64-46 when favored on the moneyline, demonstrating their ability to capitalize on favorable matchups. The team's confidence was bolstered by their recent signing of catcher Cal Raleigh to a six-year, $105 million contract extension, ensuring that one of the league's top catchers would remain in Seattle through 2030.
Cal Raleigh, who had a standout season last year with 34 home runs and 100 RBIs, is expected to play a pivotal role in the Mariners' success this season. His performance will be closely watched as he aims to build on his previous achievements. Meanwhile, Julio Rodríguez, another key player, posted a .273 average with 20 homers and 68 RBIs last season and is poised to be a central figure in the Mariners' lineup.
The Mariners' roster also features Randy Arozarena, who finished last season with 20 home runs and 60 RBIs, and Luke Raley, who hit .243 with a .320 on-base percentage and a .463 slugging percentage. These players, along with the newly assembled roster, have generated excitement among fans and analysts alike, who are eager to see how they will perform in the 2025 season.
As the game progressed, the Mariners' strategy became evident, with Wilson emphasizing the importance of versatility and lineup flexibility. He stated, "We’ll continue to be looking at the DH spot as a way as well to get guys in there and to get the at-bats and guys that have contributed to our lineup. We have a lot of great options there and that’s what makes our lineup so deep and so flexible is that we have great options everywhere we go."
With a mix of returning talent and new acquisitions, the Mariners are set to embark on their journey toward the playoffs. Fans are hopeful that this season will bring a return to October baseball and a chance to compete for the championship. As the Mariners take the field for their season opener, the anticipation is high, and the excitement of Opening Day sets the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating season.
As the Mariners look to establish their identity early in the season, the matchup against the Athletics will be a crucial test. Both teams are eager to start the year on a positive note, and with the stakes high, every pitch and every play will matter. The Mariners are ready to embrace the challenges ahead, and fans are eager to rally behind their team as they strive for success in 2025.
