--LHP Ryan Rowland-Smith allowed one run in three innings of relief Thursday, continuing a strong performance in recent games by the bullpen. Mariners relievers have allowed five earned runs in their past 23 innings, a 1.96 ERA during that span.
--RHP Felix Hernandez's five-inning outing was his shortest since Sept. 19, 2007, at Oakland. With five strikeouts, he has at least five in six of his eight starts this season. --DH Jose Vidro missed his third consecutive game because of back spasms. "He's not even close to 100 percent, so we're taking it day by day," manager John McLaren said.
--RF Brad Wilkerson was placed on waivers in order to be granted his unconditional release. The Mariners had designated Wilkerson for assignment April 30 when C Jeff Clement and RF Wladimir Balentien were called up from Class AAA Tacoma. Wilkerson batted .232 in 19 games.
--INF Miguel Cairo's infield single in the ninth inning Thursday was his first hit of the season. He'd gone hitless in his first 14 at-bats.
BY THE NUMBERS: 2 -- Number of blown saves for RHP J.J. Putz. He only had two blown saves in all of 2007.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "A razor-blade sandwich." -- Manager John McLaren, on what he had for dinner Saturday night in New York after four consecutive losses.
