Mariners Extend Streak; Reds Top Cardinals

The Seattle Mariners are averaging 9.6 runs per game during a five-game winning streak and are poised to clinch their eighth series in a row, with Luis Castillo set to start against the Texas Rangers. Castillo, who recently pitched six shutout innings, holds a 3-2 record and 3.62 ERA, and will face the Rangers for the sixth time in his career. The Mariners dominated the series opener 13-1, powered by home runs from Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodriguez, while the Rangers continue to struggle offensively. Mariners closer Andres Munoz was named AL Reliever of the Month after a flawless March and April. In other MLB action, the Cincinnati Reds defeated the St. Louis Cardinals with a four-run fifth inning featuring RBIs from Elly De La Cruz, Austin Hays, and Noelvi Marte, and a perfect ninth-inning debut by Luis Mey. These games highlight the impact of strong pitching and timely hitting across the league.