They say that what goes up, must come down.
Such is the case for Seattle Mariners rookie starting pitcher Bryce Miller, who was on the wrong side of history on Sunday.
First off, it should be noted how good that Miller was over the first month of his career. The last two starts? Less good.
Per OptaSTATS:
Bryce Miller allowed four runs in 31.1 innings pitched in the first five starts of his career. Since then, he allowed eight runs to the Yankees on May 29 and seven runs to the Rangers today. Miller is the first pitcher in the modern era (since 1901) to allow less than five total runs in their first five starts of a season and then allow more than five in each of their next two starts.
It's certainly a learning experience for Miller. He's faced the Yankees and Rangers the last two times out after facing the Athletics twice in his first month. There's clearly a difference there.
Miller lasted just 2.1 innings on Sunday, giving up seven earned runs on eight hits. His ERA has ballooned to 4.46 overall.
The Mariners as a whole were pummeled by Texas, getting swept in the three games in Arlington. The Mariners are now under .500 at 29-30 and will take on the Padres on Tuesday night.
The Rangers are now 38-20 and lead the American League West by 3.5 games. They are seeking their first playoff berth since 2016 and are well on their way to getting it. They'll take on the Cardinals on Monday.
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