Mariners pitcher James Paxton allowed seven runs on nine hits in just 2 2/3 innings in Seattle's 11-10 win over of the Rangers Sunday.
It all fell apart for Paxton in the third inning when the first four batters of the inning reached base safely, leading to a run. Then with the bases loaded, Shin-Soo Choo grounded out to bring home another run. Texas continued to peck away at Paxton, scoring five runs all on singles or fielder's choices. Jake Smolinski then smacked a two-run home run over the left center field wall. The Rangers added another run before Paxton was pulled.
"Things weren't going my way, but I also wasn't making good pitches," Paxton said to MLB.com. "I was staying in the middle of the zone too much and making mistakes. I'm struggling right now, but I'm not going to quit fighting. I'm going to figure it out and persevere."
Paxton, still 0-1 on the year, now boasts a 5.40 ERA and will look for his first win of the year Saturday against the Twins.