Hour 2 - Mariners Weren't Supposed To Start Slow, Is This NFL Draft A Letdown, Blue 88
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The Mariners' 10-15 start has sparked frustration far beyond typical April slumps, with hosts Brock Eward and Mike Salk questioning whether the team’s current identity—marked by weak offensive production and a low hard-hit rate—aligns with expectations set by last year’s ALCS run. Despite acknowledging the season is far from over, they argue the team is not just below .500, but failing to execute the fundamentals: hitting the ball hard, driving in runs, and capitalizing on opportunities. The hosts critique the current strategy of prioritizing contact over power, calling it a self-inflicted wound that’s led to a 1-for-18 mark with runners in scoring position. They contrast this with last year’s 18-12 record on May 1st and emphasize that while the window isn’t closed, the team must act fast to regain momentum. Meanwhile, the draft discussion shifts to the Seahawks’ 32nd pick, where the hosts dissect the implications of selecting a corner, edge, or running back—each choice revealing strategic intent around roster stability, veteran leverage, and long-term fit. They highlight the irony of a 'down draft' feeling underwhelming despite potential hidden gems like Drake Thomas and Ty Okada, who made impacts without being drafted. The episode closes with a playful yet pointed reflection on how the Seahawks’ 2014 Super Bowl redemption still resonates, even as the 2026 draft feels less electric than expected.
The Mariners' 10-15 start is a significant deviation from the 18-12 pace they set on May 1st last year, signaling a need for urgent offensive improvement.
Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodríguez are in the 11th and 40% percentile respectively on hard-hit rate, indicating a systemic issue with power production, not just individual slumps.
The team’s focus on contact over hard contact has led to 7 singles in a recent game—eight hits, but only one home run—proving that contact alone doesn’t win games.
The Seahawks’ 32nd pick draft strategy may signal they’re not in love with available veteran edge players, using the draft to gain leverage in negotiations.
Selecting a corner like Chris Johnson at 32 implies immediate starting potential, suggesting the Seahawks believe in his ability to step in and contribute right away.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Mariners' Early Struggles: A 10-15 Start Is Not the Script
“We weren't supposed to do this on April 22nd. Like I really thought by now we wouldn't be having these conversations.”
The Hard-Hit Rate Crisis: Why Contact Isn’t Enough
“You're not going to hit the ball hard. You're not going to have a good offense. Well, I never like that strategy much. I like walks and home runs.”
The Message in the Move: Legumina’s DFA Sends a Warning
The hosts analyze the DFA of Casey Legumina, suggesting it was a subtle but powerful message to the team: the window for underperformance has closed. They debate whether it was a strategic move to send a signal or simply a roster decision based on performance.
The Draft Dilemma: Is 32 a Down Draft?
“It's a down draft. That doesn't mean there can't be a player or two that is going to be an incredibly pleasant surprise.”
The Hidden Gems: Undrafted Stars Who Made a Difference
The hosts reflect on how undrafted players like Drake Thomas and Ty Okada played pivotal roles in the Seahawks’ Super Bowl run, arguing that the 2026 draft may not produce flashier names but could still yield impactful contributors.
“You're not going to hit the ball hard. You're not going to have a good offense. Well, I never like that strategy much. I like walks and home runs.”
“is a down draft. That doesn't mean there can't be a player or two that is going to be an incredibly pleasant surprise.”
“be able if we take you at 32, I think that there is an expectation that you're going to come in here and not be a backup. But you're going to play a pretty strong role within the group”
Hosts
mariners
other
seahawks
other
cal raleigh
person
julio rodriguez
person
casey legumina
person
chris johnson
person
brady henderson
person
daniel jeremiah
person
jadarion price
person
mike mayock
person
Hour 2 - So Many Mariners Contributed This Weekend, Mariners Takeaways, Blue 88
Brock and Salk • 42m • 4/13/2026
Hour 3 - Julio Rodriguez Weekend Quotes, Keith Law
Brock and Salk • 47m • 4/13/2026
Hour 3 - Julio Rodriguez Is The Ultimate Driver Of The Mariners, Jeff Passan
Brock and Salk • 42m • 4/14/2026
Hour 4-Brock's Draft Profile, How real was the M's last series?, and Answer the Question Jerk
Brock and Salk • 43m • 4/14/2026
Hour 1 - Late Night Mariners Texts, Jeff Passan
Brock and Salk • 43m • 4/15/2026
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