White Sox fall to Mariners in 12-8 slugfest

May 9, 2026 - 10:50

What was supposed to be a crisp pitcher's duel quickly devolved into a chaotic slugfest at Guaranteed Rate Field, as the Seattle Mariners outlasted the Chicago White Sox 12-8 in a game that featured 20 runs, 27 hits, and very little effective pitching.

The trouble started early. Seattle jumped on White Sox starter Michael Kopech for four runs in the first inning, highlighted by a two-run homer from Julio Rodriguez. Chicago answered back in the bottom half, but neither starter could find a rhythm. By the time the third inning ended, the score was already 7-5 in favor of the Mariners.

The bullpens did not fare much better. Both teams traded runs in the middle frames, with the White Sox clawing back to tie the game at 8-8 in the sixth. But Seattle broke it open in the seventh, stringing together four consecutive hits off Chicago reliever Tanner Banks. A bases-clearing double by Ty France put the Mariners ahead for good.

The White Sox had chances late but left seven runners on base over the final three innings. Seattle's bullpen, despite some shaky moments, managed to hold the line.

For Chicago, the loss drops them further in the standings, while the Mariners continue to hover around the .500 mark. Both teams will look for better pitching in the series finale tomorrow.