After what seemed like an eternity, the Seattle Mariners will begin the second half Friday night with first place on the line against the Houston Astros.

The Mariners (52-46) currently hold a one-game lead over the defending American League West Champion Astros (50-46). The All-Star break is finally over, and it is time to push for the playoffs. This series against the Astros is huge for Seattle. Win the series, and maintain a lead. Lose the series, and you’re in trouble.

Probable pitchers for Mariners’ July 19 game against the Astros

• The Mariners will start the second half with their ace, Luis Castillo. This will be Castillo’s (8-9, 3.53 ERA) second start of the season against the Astros. On May 28, He pitched a gem, earning a quality start over six innings, giving up just two runs on five hits, while walking one and striking out six. After a tough month of June, Castillo seems to be back in ace form. He has given up just one total run over his last two starts.

• As for the Astros, they will hand the ball to young righty Hunter Brown. Brown (7-6, 4.39 ERA) has completely turned his season around after a terrible start to 2024. This will be Brown’s third start of the season against the Mariners. One start he couldn’t make it out of the fifth inning, while the other start he tossed a six-inning gem. Brown has the talent to go out and shove every single night, but he’s had quite a few games where he has looked lost on the mound.

Seattle Mariners starting lineup, July 19

1. J.P. Crawford, SS
2. Josh Rojas, 3B
3. Julio Rodriguez, CF
4. Cal Raleigh, C
5. Mitch Garver, DH
6. Jorge Polanco, 2B
7. Ty France, 1B
8. Luke Raley, LF
9. Victor Robles, RF

Houston Astros starting lineup, July 19

1. Jose Altuve, 2B
2. Alex Bregman, 3B
3. Yordon Alvarez, DH
4. Yainer Diaz, C
5. Jon Singleton, 1B
6. Jeremy Peña, SS
7. Jake Meyers, CF
8. Joey Loperfido, LF
9. Trey Cabbage, RF

Where can I stream tonight’s Mariners vs Astros game?

• Tonight’s first pitch is scheduled for 7:10 PST.
• MLB.tv (Free game of the night, normally a subscription is required)
• fuboTV (Free trial available)

Where can I watch tonight’s Mariners vs Astros game?

• Local Mariners fans can watch tonight’s game on ROOTNW
• Local Astros fans can watch tonight’s game on Space City Home Network
• Out of market fans can watch tonight’s game on MLB Network

Where can I listen to tonight’s Mariners vs Astros game?

• Mariners fans can listen to tonight’s game on KIRO 710
• Astros fans can listen to tonight’s game on KBME 790 AM/94.5 FM HD-2, TUDN 99.3 / KLAT 1010

Game notes

• Luis Castillo gave up just two runs in his last start against the Astros. Those came on an Alex Bregman 2-run home run.
• The Mariners are undefeated wearing their City Connect Uniforms (8-0), and they will be wearing them tonight.
• The Mariners are 18-8 against AL West rivals, the best division record in all of baseball.