The rivalry between the Seattle Mariners and the Texas Rangers in the 2022 MLB season was a showcase of baseball passion and competitive spirit. These two American League West teams faced off in a series of games that not only held significance in their respective seasons but also added another chapter to their historical matchups.
With both teams vying for success and striving to make their mark in the league, each game was a high-stakes battle filled with standout performances, dramatic twists, and unforgettable moments.
This season’s clashes between the Mariners and Rangers highlighted the enduring appeal of baseball rivalries and left fans eagerly anticipating the future of this engaging contest.
History: Seattle Mariners Vs Texas Rangers
Establishment and Early Years
Seattle Mariners: The Mariners were established as an expansion team in 1977 when Major League Baseball awarded Seattle an American League franchise. They began playing their home games at the Kingdome.
Texas Rangers: The Rangers have a longer history, tracing their origins back to 1961 when they were known as the Washington Senators. In 1972, the franchise moved to Arlington, Texas, and became the Texas Rangers.
Success and Achievements
Seattle Mariners: The Mariners have yet to win a World Series championship in their history. However, they have made several postseason appearances and had notable successes, including the famous 1995 playoff run.
Texas Rangers: The Rangers also struggled for a long time but have made significant strides in recent years. They reached the World Series in 2010 and 2011, though they were unable to secure a championship.
Notable Players
Seattle Mariners: The Mariners have been home to some of baseball’s greatest players, including Ken Griffey Jr., Edgar Martinez, Randy Johnson, Ichiro Suzuki, and Felix Hernandez. These players have left a lasting legacy in Seattle.
Texas Rangers: The Rangers have also had their share of legendary players, such as Nolan Ryan, Ivan Rodriguez, Adrian Beltre, and Michael Young. These players have made significant contributions to the franchise’s history.
Ballpark
Seattle Mariners: The Mariners played at the Kingdome until 1999 when they moved to T-Mobile Park (formerly Safeco Field), a beautiful retractable-roof stadium located in Seattle.
Texas Rangers: The Rangers played at the Arlington Stadium until 1993 and then moved to the Globe Life Park. In 2020, they opened Globe Life Field, a state-of-the-art retractable-roof stadium.
Fanbase: Seattle Mariners Vs Texas Rangers
Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners boast a devoted and resilient fanbase primarily concentrated in the Pacific Northwest. Mariners fans are known for their unwavering loyalty despite the team’s historical lack of postseason success.
The iconic King’s Court section, dedicated to former ace Felix Hernandez, showcased the passion of the Mariners faithful. This fanbase has been energized by legendary players like Ken Griffey Jr., Ichiro Suzuki, and Edgar Martinez.
While they may not have the same nationwide recognition as some other teams, Mariners fans create a vibrant atmosphere at T-Mobile Park, proving that their love for the team is as deep as the ocean.
Texas Rangers
The Texas Rangers’ fanbase is a proud and passionate group of supporters deeply rooted in the Lone Star State. With a rich baseball tradition in Texas, Rangers fans fill Globe Life Field with enthusiasm, especially during intense matchups against intrastate rivals like the Houston Astros.
The franchise’s World Series appearances in 2010 and 2011 cemented the Rangers’ place in the hearts of their fans. The Rangers have a strong following throughout Texas, from Arlington to Dallas, Fort Worth, and beyond.
They embody the spirit of Texan pride, making every game an unforgettable experience and proving that baseball has a special place in the heart of Texas.
Iconic Moments: Seattle Mariners Vs Texas Rangers Rivalry
“The Double” (1995)
One of the most memorable moments in this rivalry occurred during the 1995 American League Division Series. In the 11th inning of Game 5, with the Mariners trailing the Rangers, Edgar Martinez hit a walk-off double that scored Ken Griffey Jr.
and sent the Mariners to their first-ever ALCS. This clutch hit, known simply as “The Double,” is etched in Mariners’ lore as one of the greatest moments in franchise history.
Nelson Cruz’s Return (2015)
Nelson Cruz, who had previously played for the Rangers, joined the Mariners in 2015. In his first season with Seattle, Cruz hit 44 home runs, making a significant impact on the rivalry. His return to Texas as a Mariner added an intriguing storyline and showcased his continued prowess as a power hitter.
Felix Hernandez’s Dominance
“King Felix” Hernandez, one of the most beloved Mariners of all time, had numerous dominant performances against the Rangers throughout his career. His masterful pitching displays and duels with Rangers hitters became a highlight of the rivalry.
Adrian Beltre’s Milestone Home Run (2017)
Adrian Beltre, who played for both teams during his career, hit his 3,000th career hit while with the Rangers in 2017. This historic moment occurred during a game against the Mariners and added a unique twist to the rivalry as both fanbases celebrated Beltre’s achievement.
Back-and-forth Games
Many games in this rivalry have featured dramatic comebacks and late-inning heroics. High-scoring affairs, extra-inning battles, and tight contests have been a hallmark of Mariners vs. Rangers matchups, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Future Outlook: Seattle Mariners Vs Texas Rangers
Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners are on an upward trajectory with a promising future. Their strong farm system is producing young talent, including pitchers like Logan Gilbert and outfielder Jarred Kelenic.
With key prospects like Julio Rodriguez on the horizon, the Mariners aim to build a competitive team in the highly competitive AL West. Under the leadership of general manager Jerry Dipoto and manager Scott Servais, Seattle is focused on blending emerging stars with veteran experience.
If they can continue developing their young core, the Mariners have the potential to return to postseason contention, providing hope and excitement for their passionate fanbase.
Texas Rangers
The Texas Rangers are in a rebuilding phase, looking to transform their roster for future success. The organization is committed to restocking their farm system, making astute draft choices and international signings.
Players like Josh Jung and Sam Huff are regarded as the future stars of the team. However, the Rangers face the challenge of competing in a highly competitive AL West division.
As they continue to develop their young talent and make strategic moves in free agency, the Rangers aim to rebuild a competitive roster capable of contending in the near future. It’s a transitional period, but Texas fans hold hope for brighter days ahead.
Recent Performance: Seattle Mariners Vs Texas Rangers
Game 1: Mariners 6, Rangers 2
Date: August 11, 2022
Winner: Seattle Mariners
Notable Performances: Logan Gilbert (Mariners, strong pitching), Mitch Haniger (Mariners, two-run homer), Kyle Seager (Mariners, solo homer), Adolis Garcia (Rangers, solo homer)
Game 2: Rangers 7, Mariners 4
Date: August 12, 2022
Winner: Texas Rangers
Notable Performances: Ty France (Mariners, two-run double), DJ Peters (Rangers, two-run triple), Yonny Hernandez (Rangers, squeeze bunt), Jarred Kelenic (Mariners, RBI single)
Game 3: Mariners 5, Rangers 3
Date: August 13, 2022
Winner: Seattle Mariners
Notable Performances: Ty France (Mariners, two-run single), Luis Torrens (Mariners, two-run homer), Adolis Garcia (Rangers, two-run double), Andy Ibanez (Rangers, RBI single), Abraham Toro (Mariners, RBI double)
Seattle Mariners Vs Texas Rangers Rivalry
| Season | Date | Venue | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 | 10/8/1995 | Kingdome (Seattle) | Seattle Mariners | 6-5 |
| 2001 | 9/25/2001 | The Ballpark (Texas) | Seattle Mariners | 9-7 |
| 2011 | 5/9/2011 | T-Mobile Park (Seattle) | Texas Rangers | 4-0 |
| 2015 | 8/16/2015 | Globe Life Park (Texas) | Seattle Mariners | 4-2 |
| 2017 | 7/30/2017 | Safeco Field (Seattle) | Texas Rangers | 6-4 |
| 2019 | 8/11/2019 | Globe Life Park (Texas) | Seattle Mariners | 3-2 |
| 2022 | 6/14/2022 | T-Mobile Park (Seattle) | Texas Rangers | 5-3 |
FAQs
When did the Seattle Mariners and the Texas Rangers first become rivals?
The rivalry began when the Mariners joined the American League in 1977, and the Rangers had already been part of the league since 1961.
What is the most iconic moment in their rivalry’s history?
“The Double” in 1995, when Edgar Martinez’s walk-off double sent the Mariners to their first ALCS, is often considered the most iconic moment.
Who are some legendary players associated with this rivalry?
Ken Griffey Jr., Felix Hernandez, and Ichiro Suzuki for the Mariners, and Nolan Ryan, Ivan Rodriguez, and Adrian Beltre for the Rangers, among others.
Do they have a heated rivalry like the Red Sox vs. Yankees?
While it’s a rivalry, it doesn’t have the same historical intensity as the Red Sox vs. Yankees, but it’s still competitive and passionate.
Where do they typically play their games?
The Mariners play at T-Mobile Park in Seattle, while the Rangers play at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.
To Recap
In the 2022 season, the Seattle Mariners and the Texas Rangers engaged in a spirited rivalry marked by thrilling moments and competitive play. The Mariners emerged victorious in a hard-fought series, taking two out of three games, underlining their aspirations for a wild card spot in the American League.
Logan Gilbert’s pitching dominance, Mitch Haniger’s power, and clutch hitting from their roster played pivotal roles in securing their wins. Meanwhile, the Rangers, despite a loss in the series, displayed resilience and offensive prowess, signaling potential for growth in the seasons to come.
These matchups exemplified the enduring intensity of baseball rivalries and left fans eager for future showdowns between these two teams.
