Hour 2 - The Ups And Downs Of The Mariners Season, Should the Seahawks Pay Derrick Hall, Blue 88

The Mariners' 2026 season has been defined by volatility, not just from on-field performance but from the emotional weight of being so close to the ALCS again. Brock Eward and Mike Salk argue that the intensity stems from the feeling that the championship is within reach—much like the Red Sox’s 2003-2004 run—making every loss feel catastrophic and every win feel like a lifeline. A pivotal 5-2 win over the A’s, fueled by Johnny Parada’s first career home run and Randy Arozarena’s two-run blast, lifted the team from a dangerous 1-5 homestand and avoided a series sweep. The episode pivots sharply to J.P. Crawford’s selfless move to third base—prioritizing team success over personal legacy—drawing a direct contrast to Derek Jeter’s refusal to shift positions despite declining range. The hosts then shift focus to the Seahawks, passionately advocating for a long-term extension for 25-year-old edge rusher Derek Hall, whose elite pass-rush win rate (27.6%), Pro Football Focus grades, and physical dominance (even in a misleading photo) make him a cornerstone of Mike Macdonald’s defensive scheme. They argue that Hall, despite modest sack totals, is a 'rugged' force who fits the Seahawks’ identity and should be paid as a top-30 edge defender—more than Boye Mafé—and that the team must prioritize him over less impactful signings.