Bedard will look to continue his turnaround from a disappointing 2008 season Friday night as the surprising Mariners open a three-game road series against the preseason AL West favorite Los Angeles Angels. After three appearances in 2009, Bedard (1-1, 1.86 ERA) has looked much more like the pitcher the Mariners thought they were acquiring when they dealt five prospects to Baltimore. He's struck out 23 and only walked three, and has been excellent in his last two outings, spearheading a Seattle staff that has a major-league best 3.01 ERA.

The Angels are 1-3 vs lefthanders this year.

Shane Loux (0-1, 3.65) has been solid in two starts, though he's still looking for his first win. Loux gave up two runs in 5 1-3 innings against the Mariners in his first start, not factoring in the decision in a 3-2 loss. However, his career numbers are 1-5 with a 5.94 ERA and in 72 career innings he’s struck out 23 batters.

Los Angeles (6-9) with an injury-ravaged starting rotation has sported a 3.50 ERA, but the bullpen has been a different story, registering a league-worst 8.04 ERA.



Pick: Seattle @ -112

Seattle @ -112(winner)

finally a winner on the baseball side.........