Astros fans mock Mariners following statement win in crucial series opener - "You can sea the playoffs next year"

The Houston Astros trounced hosts Seattle Mariners 5-1 on Monday night to increase their lead in the battle for the American League's third and final wildcard playoff spot.

Justin Verlander had a masterful outing, holding the Mariners scoreless until the ninth inning. It marked Seattle's seventh defeat in 10 games and fourth on the trot.

The @Astros paid their AL Wild Card lead with a huge win in Seattle. - MLB

Social media was flooded with scathing comments about the Mariners from Astros fans.

Great job, Astros! Keep dominating the AL Wild Card race. - bigxoidy

the seattle mariners are finished - SP0TEMGOTTEM

Last year was a fluke year for Seattle - 2Future

Clutch performance by Verlander tonight. Not looking good for m’s right now. - B_klaus

You can Sea the playoffs next year - BrainStros

Houston didn't require much offense, but against Seattle starter Luis Castillo (14-8), they staged one significant two-out rally that resulted in three runs in the second inning.

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Houston Astros' performance in AL West

The Texas Rangers are leading the AL West with one week left in the 2023 MLB regular season, but the Houston Astros squandered a huge opportunity at home this weekend.

On Sunday, the Rangers swept the Seattle Mariners in three games at home (TEX 9, SEA 8), while the Astros lost to the 102-loss Kansas City Royals (KC 6, HOU 5).

The Astros have a 3-12 record in 15 games, including a 2-7 record against the Royals and the A's, two other underachieving teams.

The two teams are separated from the top by a whopping 68 games. Houston ended the regular season with a 39-42 record at Minute Maid Park on Sunday, their last home game. Their 38-43 record marks their first losing campaign at home since 2014.

The Rangers must drop at least three of their last seven games if the Astros win 6-0. They would both have records of 91-61 if Houston go 6-0 and Texas 4-3.