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In the "never to early to look ahead" dept... The next 19 games leading up to the All-Star Break look like a crucial stretch for the Mariners.
We play 13 of 19 away from Safeco, starting with a 6-game east-coast excursion to have our pitchers hit against the Nationals and the new-look/old-coach Marlins.  Then, we return for 6 at home against the Braves (41-33) and Padres.  Finally, 7 games on the road at division rivals A's and Angels.
Meanwhile, the Rangers will look to build a comfortable cushion as they play an amazing 16 of their next 19 games at home with the old road trip being a short hop over to Houston to play the worst team in baseball in what will essentially be a home game.  The only challenge the Rangers face will be the Texas heat as their opponents (6 vs Houston, 3 vs Mets 3 vs Marlins, 3 vs O's and 4 vs A's) will not make them sweat nearly so much.
If the M's go 10-9, they may still find themselves down 5 games at the All-Star Break, and the focus may be on planning for 2012 with the trade deadline looming.
But if the M's remain within a game or two of the Rangers, then the trade deadline becomes a discussion of adding another piece for a 2011 playoff run.
19 games till the All-Star Break and of course, the first series after the break is a 4-game series against the Rangers @ Safeco.  At least the team will know where they stand heading into the trade deadline!