DeGrom vs. Gilbert: Pitching Duel Opens Rangers-Mariners Series

The Texas Rangers and Seattle Mariners are commencing a three-game series in Seattle on Friday, April 17, 2026. The highly anticipated opening game features a marquee pitching matchup between the Rangers' Jacob deGrom and the Mariners' Logan Gilbert. Both pitchers are noted for their strong performances and have historically limited the opposing team's offense, setting expectations for a closely contested, low-scoring contest.

The Rangers enter the series having recently secured a split against the Athletics, aiming to build momentum. DeGrom has maintained a 2.87 ERA through three starts this season, while Gilbert is countering with his own proven capabilities. The game's focus on pitching extends to the bullpens, with both teams featuring ERAs under 3.00 in relief, further suggesting a tight game.

Recent outings highlight the pitchers' forms: deGrom allowed just one earned run in his last start, and Gilbert has given up only three earned runs over his past two appearances. This pitching strength, combined with their career statistics against each other—deGrom holding Seattle to a .182 average and Gilbert limiting Texas to a .197 average—underscores why the opener is framed as a high-leverage duel. The outcome of this first game is poised to influence the remainder of the weekend series.