We’ve been a little distracted by the World Cup for the past 10 days, watching pretty much every match with the help of headphones on our work computer. Despite odd looks from coworkers, we’ll continue to cheer when appropriate. Yes, New Zealand just scored a goal, and I WILL MAKE YOU AWARE OF IT. Meanwhile, under our noses, the Mariners have provided some mercifully vuvuzela-free entertainment. more ›

Saw Catch Me If You Can over the weekend, and it struck me that the 2009 Mariners are working in a similar way--auditioning players for roles on next season's team while still putting on a professional performance. more ›

Ryan Rowland-Smith lost a no-hitter bid in the seventh inning, and also a slim 1-0 lead when Aaron Hill hit a two-run homer. But Ken Griffey Jr. delivered a two-run double in the bottom of the inning (matching his previous RBI total for the entire month of July) and the bullpen held on. Ichiro had two more hits, his 149th and 150th of the year, raising his average to a ridiculous .368. M's 53-48, 7.5 GB. Box score. Next game Thu @ TEX, 5:05 p.m.; Olson vs. Holland. more ›