Mariners bring first-place outlook into rematch with Royals

(Photo credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports)
For the past couple of decades, the Seattle Mariners have had few reasons to check the out-of-town scoreboard at this point in the season.

After all, they hadn't been in first place in the American League West this late in a campaign since 2003.

Until now, that is.

The Mariners, who have won nine of their past 10 games, are tied with the Texas Rangers for the division lead