Rays vs. Mariners Live Blog: Instant Reactions and Analysis

The Seattle Mariners' offensive struggles continued Thursday night as they lost 2-1 to the Tampa Bay Rays for their sixth straight loss.

Seattle had its fair share of opportunities against Rays starting pitcher Erasmo Ramirez, totaling 10 hits in the game. However, the Mariners left 10 men on base and had a chance to tie or win the game late.

Second baseman Robinson Cano had a solid night for Seattle (2-5, two singles, one RBI) but he failed to get the hit late to tie or win the game. Cano struck out swinging against Rays closer Kevin Jepsen with Willie Bloomquist at second base.

Mariners starter Roenis Elias had another solid outing, with just one run and five hits allowed through eight innings pitched. Elias has allowed just six runs combined through his last three starts.

Ramirez, whom the Rays acquired in the offseason from Seattle, had an impressive performance against his former team. While he only pitched five innings, he allowed just one run and recorded just one walk.

The Rays got on the board early with two runs scored in the fourth inning. Rays outfielder Steven Souza Jr. hit an RBI single to give Tampa Bay a 1-0 lead. The Rays scored their second run of the inning when first baseman Jake Elmore hit a fielder's choice, allowing second baseman Logan Forsythe to score on the play.

The Mariners scored their sole run of the game when Cano hit an RBI single up the middle to bring Seattle within a run. After hitting the single, Cano got picked off at first during the next at-bat to end the inning.

With the win, the Rays have won three straight games in Seattle dating back to last season. Tampa Bay moved within a half-game behind the American League East-leading New York Yankees.

The Mariners will aim to get back on track tomorrow in the second game of the four-game home series against the Rays. First pitch is scheduled for 10:10 p.m. ET and can be seen on Root Sports.