“He’s had an unbelievable year, following up a crazy rookie year where he jumped on the scene,” Seattle manager Scott Servais said. “He has been awesome for us.”
Added Rodríguez: “I was helping the team win. That’s what feels really good, to be able to, whenever guys get on base, be able to drive them in and have that good at-bat.”
George Kirby (11-10) scattered eight hits across seven strong innings, allowing three runs and striking out three. The right-hander earned his first win since Aug. 5 against the Angels.
“Felt really good today,” Kirby said. “Just attacked like I usually do and limit the walks and usually good things happen. We hit the ball really well today and played really good defense too. Good team win today.”
Justin Topa pitched a scoreless ninth for his third save.
Zack Gelof and Brent Rooker homered for the A’s, who lost their seventh in a row and suffered their 19th sweep of the year, extending an Oakland record.
The Athletics (46-106) moved within two losses of the Oakland record set in 1979 and fell 60 games below .500 for the first time since 1919.
In his major league debut, Joey Estes (0-1) allowed six runs, five earned, on six hits with two strikeouts in 4 2/3 innings. The 21-year-old right-hander became the 24th pitcher to start for the Athletics this season, tying the 1915 Philadelphia A’s for the major league record.
“It’s been a crazy journey for me,” Estes said. “I’m not really worried about results. I’m happy just to be living in this moment. I’ve worked very hard to get here.”
SEATTLE DOMINANCE
The Mariners finished the season series 12-1 against the A’s, their best record against a divisional opponent in franchise history and Oakland’s worst record against any opponent in a season series of at least 12 games in club history.
TRAINER’S ROOM
Athletics: LHP Sean Newcomb underwent lateral meniscus surgery on his left knee and is expected to be ready for spring training.
ROSTER MOVES
The A’s optioned RHP Devin Sweet to Triple-A Las Vegas and transferred Newcomb to the 60-day injured list to clear a roster spot for Estes.
UP NEXT
Following an off day, Seattle goes with RHP Bryce Miller (8-5, 3.88 ERA) as the Mariners open a three-game series Friday at Texas.