 It's 9.40 here at Northwest News Radio. Time for a peak in plumbing sports update from Bill Schwartz. Much anticipated Mariners Astros series in Soto. Seattle's held the American League West lead for the better part of a month and a half. But the Houston Astros are nipping at their heels only a game back. So it makes this weekend's three-game series significant, not make or break it. One thing's for certain. Manager Scott Service Ball Club has to pull out of its offensive funk.