July ... sorta made me cry

July Tid-Bits

• 17 will get you 20 - the 17 game losing streak gave the M's a 6-20 mark for the month of July
• Still last in nearly every major offensive category 
• And, even the pitching fell apart - 2nd highest ERA in the AL
• -54 run differential for the month, -67 overall

AT THE PLATE

OK, we all know the sad story about the abysmal offense as a whole so, let's focus on the successes, shall we?  Two Mariners batted .300+ in the month of July...
they would be: Dustin (.308) and Mike (.349) each with a triple and Dustin also led the team in doubles (8) and homers (3).

ON THE MOUND

Usually, we've at least got pitching to brag about.  Not this month.  The M's starters combined for a 5-16 record.  Newbie, Blake Beavan performed the best of the rotation, posting a 1-2 record with a 3.03ERA.  Felix and Fister each had sub-4 ERA's, but, for them not too stellar (poor Doug - 0-4 through really no fault of his own).  And then there's Jason ... who just flat out imploded in July. 

IN THE PEN

Brandon only had 7 appearances in July - converting 3 of 4 save opportunities (one blown, but got the win) and posting a 1.79 ERA for the month.  He has recovered nicely from that rough patch in May, lowering his overall ERA to just a smidge over 3, while most of the other relievers saw their ERAs go the wrong direction in July. 

OF BASE PATHS AND LEATHER WORKS

One offensive area the M's excelled at in July - thievery!
Ichiro, Guti, Brendan and Chone combined for 22 stolen bases.
M's had 27 total in July - tied for 3rd in the AL

JULY STARS

No question about the hitting star...
Dustin Ackley! (see above)

The pitcher is less clear, I'll call it a tie between a couple "B's"...
Brandon and Blake.  The closer helped the M's to 4  of their 6 victories (3 saves and a win) and the rookie only notched one win (vs the Pads) but, showed a LOT of poise against some good to great teams -
Angels, Rangers and Red Sox.

DEPARTURES

It's always sad to see guys go but, I understand the reasoning.  Best of luck to Doug Fister and David Pauley with the Tiggers and Erik Bedard with the Red Sox.  Here's hoping they all pitch well, stay healthy and really contribute to their new teams - who both appear likely headed for post season play!

Definitely glad to turn the Calendar to August!