Mariners Defeat Rays 8-2 as Starting Pitcher Emerson Hancock Exits with Bruised Finger

On Sunday in St. Peterson, Fla., Seattle rallied to an 8–2 victory over Tampa Bay, snapping a five-game losing streak. The Mariners built a 7–0 lead with a three-run homer by Randy Arozarena and a solo shot by Weston Wilson, while Tampa Bay’s only runs came on a solo homer by Jonathan Aranda and a late single by Yandy Diaz. Seattle (48-49) improved to just under .500, and the Rays (57-37) entered the All-Star break with the American League’s best record.

Associated Press

Seattle’s right-hander Emerson Hancock was struck on his pitching hand by a 107.2 mph one-hopper off his own pitch to Yandy Diaz. X-rays showed no fracture, but Hancock reported a bruised palm and middle finger and left the game after issuing a walk to Victor Mesa Jr. He remained in the game through the second inning, retiring Jonathan Aranda and striking out Junior Caminero before his exit on the 19th pitch.

ESPN

Randy Arozarena’s three-run blast and J.P. Crawford’s two-run double gave Seattle an early cushion. Buddy Kennedy and Crawford added back-to-back doubles in the ninth off Craig Kimbrel to secure the margin. The win halted Seattle’s slide and provided momentum heading into a three-game home stretch against the San Francisco Giants.

ESPN

Hancock described his reaction to the hit as instinctive and emphasized the team’s needs, noting that he did not want to become a hindrance. He also praised the bullpen’s ability to step in after his departure, calling their effort “awesome.”

ESPN

• “It was just instinct,” — Emerson Hancock, right-hander, Seattle Mariners

ESPN

• “I just really couldn't get loose, I just kept grabbing at it at that point,” — Emerson Hancock

ESPN

• “I thought it was best for the team. You don't want to be a hindrance in any way out there.” — Emerson Hancock

ESPN

• “Our bullpen, what a job,” — Emerson Hancock

ESPN