The Seattle Mariners lost against the Athletics 7-6 in 11 innings on Monday night in West Sacramento, Calif. With the loss, Seattle is now 20-14 on the season.

The Mariners, despite a two-game slide, are still sitting atop the AL West and are moving up in this week's MLB power rankings.

A GRIP ON SPORTS • There are many mornings when I wake up, grab a cup of coffee and almost race to the computer to write. Mainly because the column subject is so clear I can’t wait to get started.