The Seattle Mariners won their third consecutive game with a 6-1 victory over the Houston Astros on April 12, highlighted by an early pickoff play executed by pitcher Logan Gilbert. The move, which caught Jose Altuve off guard in the first inning, set the tone for what became a strong outing for Gilbert.
The significance of this early defensive play was not lost on players or coaches. Pickoffs are rare for Gilbert, who was making his 150th career start but only recorded his second career pickoff during this game. “I didn’t know if that would look bad,” Gilbert said about considering keeping the ball as a memento. “But I was fired up because it’s been so long and I never pick guys off. … Sometimes, you can have fun out there. That’s OK.”
The successful execution involved first baseman Josh Naylor and catcher Cal Raleigh working together to deceive Altuve into taking a longer lead before signaling for the throw to first base. Naylor admitted he did not see Raleigh’s signal but tried to keep Altuve close regardless: “No, I just tried to keep him close.” Assistant pitching coach Danny Farquhar played a key role in planning these tactics during Spring Training after Seattle pitchers struggled with holding runners last season.
Gilbert credited much of the success to his teammates and coaching staff: “It was not me,” he joked. “It was called by the dugout, Naylor deking him, Cal reading it. So basically, everybody else picked him off. I just threw the ball.” The momentum from this defensive highlight carried through as Gilbert completed seven innings while allowing only one run—a solo home run—striking out seven batters and walking one.
Looking ahead, Gilbert discussed adjustments made after conversations with Raleigh and pitching coach Pete Woodworth: “The stuff is good,” he said. “I have plenty of options… Almost treating it like, if they swing, it’s a good thing… instead of just trying to out-stuff everybody.” His efficient performance required only 85 pitches over seven innings.
