Mariners remain thorn in Hamels’ side

SEATTLE — A week ago, Rangers starter Cole Hamels was starting to get serious and well-deserved consideration for the American League Cy Young Award. That was before he ran into the Mariners.

Hamels had his second straight rough start against them, allowing seven runs in just 1 2/3 innings in a 14-6 loss to the Mariners on Monday afternoon at Safeco Field. The Rangers have lost two straight, but remain nine games in front of the Astros in the American League West.

“I understand what we’re trying to accomplish,” Hamels said. “It’s more of a disappointing feeling not giving the team a chance to win, especially when we are putting runs on the board.”

Hamels has allowed 13 runs in his last four innings, all against the Mariners. He started against them last Tuesday in Arlington and began the night by retiring 10 of the first 11 batters he faced. But the Mariners scored two runs in the fourth inning and four in the fifth as he allowed 10 of 14 batters reach base.

On Monday he allowed 10 of 15 batters to reach base. Combined over the last four innings, Hamels has allowed 13 hits and seven walks.

“Playing the same team twice, it does happen,” Hamels said. “It’s a matter of not executing pitches. They’re definitely getting into hitter-friendly counts. That’s a credit to their game plan, but for me, it was throwing too …

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