Cubs Embarrass M's in Spring Training Blowout, But Here's Why Nobody's Panicking
Look, the Mariners got absolutely demolished by the Cubs in Peoria on Friday night, dropping a 7-1 spring training game that looked every bit as ugly as that final score. But before you start freaking out about opening day being less than a week away, take a breath. This was spring training, and honestly, there were some bright spots buried in the wreckage.
Kirby's Night Wasn't Terrible, Even If the Team Collapsed Around Him
George Kirby took the loss, but here's the thing: he only gave up one run through six innings. Yeah, a sloppy first inning set a rough tone, but the righty showed some real stuff on the mound. His fastball was sitting 96-98 mph all night, his slider had some good moments mixed in with the whiffs, and he threw some impressive changeups and splitters. This was his final tune-up before the real games start, and while Kirby continues to be an enigmatic arm as he tweaks and refines his arsenal, he didn't look like a guy who should have you worried.
The Lineup Couldn't Get It Done Against Colin Rea
Colin Rea made it way too easy on himself out there. The Cubs brought a mostly opening day lineup without Ian Happ, Alex Bregman, or Nico Hoerner, but these were still big league hitters who figure to play significant roles this season. The Mariners, running out a largely opening day roster themselves, just couldn't crack Rea. Josh Naylor scattered some singles like he usually does, but otherwise it was crickets offensively. That's not ideal heading into the regular season, but it's spring training. Sometimes the bats are slow to wake up.
The Bullpen Got Exposed, But There Were Glimpses of Hope
Gabe Speier got roughed up once again, though nothing particularly seemed wrong with his mechanics. Cole Wilcox keeps impressing with sharp stuff, including another clean inning in the ninth that makes you wonder if he could help this club sooner rather than later. Yosver Zulueta, though, couldn't get through his outing without a meltdown, but Michael Rucker came in and mercifully closed it out. Luke Raley did his thing, reminding everyone why he's such a nice player when healthy, something Seattle barely saw from him in 2025. Cole Young looked fine at shortstop without facing too much heavy lifting.
The Mariners get back to it soon enough. Opening day is just around the corner, and this lopsided spring loss won't matter one bit if the team shows up ready to compete.
🐦 What fans are saying on X
See the latest reactions and highlights from Seattle fans about Seattle Mariners.
View X conversation →🔮 Trade Seattle Sports on Kalshi
Did you know you can trade on Seattle sports outcomes on Kalshi, the only federally regulated prediction market in the US? Kalshi is available in Washington state. Bet on Seahawks games, Mariners season outcomes, Kraken playoff runs, and more. No sportsbook account needed.
💰 Limited offer: Get a FREE $10 when you sign up!
👉 Sign up at Kalshi.com and use promo code SEATTLEONTAP to claim your free $10.
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.