Cliff Lee pitches Rangers past Mariners 6-1 in return to Seattle after midseason trade

Lee pitches Rangers past Mariners 6-1

SEATTLE — Cliff Lee shut down his former teammates for eight innings in his first start in Seattle since a July trade, and the first-place Texas Rangers beat the Mariners 6-1 Saturday night.

Lee (12-8) allowed six hits and struck out eight for his second consecutive win after three losses and a no decision. Lee improved to 4-5 with the Rangers as they close in on their first postseason berth since 1999.

Bengie Molina had three hits and two RBIs and Jeff Francoeur hit a two-run double to lead the AL West-leading Rangers.

The Rangers acquired Lee and reliever Mark Lowe July 9 from the Mariners for first base prospect Justin Smoak and three minor leaguers.