Moore re-enters rotation, set to start Sunday

ARLINGTON -- Andrew Moore will get another shot to stick in the Mariners' rotation, as manager Scott Servais said Thursday the rookie right-hander would replace Aríel Miranda for Sunday's start against the Astros at Minute Maid Park.
The 23-year-old is 1-3 with a 5.36 ERA in nine games (seven starts) this year, but has allowed just four hits and three runs in 12 innings in two September appearances since being recalled to the Majors for the final month.
Moore made a spot start on Sept. 6 against the Astros in Seattle and allowed three hits and two runs in six innings, taking a no-decision in a 5-3 loss. That was his first start for the Mariners since July 26.
"It's definitely nice to get in the rotation," said the former Oregon State standout. "It's a fun time. We're right in the heat of it and especially playing Houston, a really good team and a fun environment. I'm definitely looking forward to another opportunity."
Servais says Moore -- who was the Mariners' most advanced pitching prospect coming into the season -- learned a lot from his first struggles in his pitching career and also made an adjustment in slowing down his delivery, which seems to have helped him mechanically.

"He's human, and he'll admit it's the first time he's struggled," Servais said "But to credit him, he just takes the ball, jumps back on the mound and goes after people. I've said from Day 1 that I've liked what I've seen from Moore, and I hope he plays a big part in our future. He's going to win a lot of games in the big leagues, no doubt."
Miranda is the only Mariners starter who hadn't missed a turn while posting an 8-7 record and 4.90 ERA in 29 starts, but the 28-year-old southpaw appears to be wearing down; he's just 1-3 with a 6.71 ERA over his last 12 outings.
Servais said he wants to give Miranda a breather and let his arm recover.
"He's saved us this year," Servais said. "With all the injuries we've had, thank God he took the ball every five days. Obviously he had some really outstanding outings, and in others he struggled a bit. But I think he's learned a lot, and he will pitch again for us this year. But right now, we'll take it a series at a time and go with Moore on Sunday."
With Félix Hernández and James Paxton coming off the disabled list this week, the Mariners suddenly have numerous starting options. Newcomers Mike Leake and Erasmo Ramírez have both been strong since being acquired in trades and will continue starting, while Moore, fellow rookie Marco Gonzales and Miranda figure to divide time or be available out of the bullpen in long roles as needed, along with Andrew Albers and Yovani Gallardo.