Rays Swept by Mariners, Playoff Hopes Fade in AL Wild Card Race

The Tampa Bay Rays are struggling to maintain their postseason hopes after being swept by the Seattle Mariners in a recent three-game series. The Mariners' offense, led by All-Star catcher Cal Raleigh who homered in all three games, overwhelmed the Rays, with Seattle scoring four runs in the first inning of the series finale. Despite efforts by the Rays' Ha-Seong Kim and Chandler Simpson to keep the games close, the Rays consistently failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities, ultimately losing 6-3 in the final game. The sweep marked the sixth time the Rays have been swept this season, leaving them 5.5 games behind the Yankees for the third and final American League wild-card spot. Following the series, the Rays embarked on a 12-game road trip beginning with a series against the Oakland Athletics, hoping to generate momentum and improve their standings. Meanwhile, the Athletics have been buoyed by catcher Shea Langeliers, who has been a standout performer since the All-Star break, leading MLB in total bases and delivering historic offensive performances, including a three-homer game as a leadoff hitter.