mariners’ Pitching Staff Receives Boost as key Players Near Return
Seattle Mariners fans can breathe a sigh of relief as the team’s injury situation appears to be improving. Starting pitcher George Kirby has rejoined the team on their current road trip, signaling a potential return to the mound. Adding to the positive news, ace Logan Gilbert is also making strides in his recovery.
Gilbert’s Recovery Progress
Logan Gilbert, who was placed on the 15-day injured list April 26 with a grade 1 flexor strain, is showing promising signs of recovery. He recently completed his second bullpen session since the injury, throwing before a game against the San Diego Padres on Saturday.
According to MLB.com’s Daniel Kramer, Gilbert’s fastball reached an remarkable 95 mph during the session. The report on “X” also noted that Seattle pitching coach Pete Woodworth, who was in the batter’s box, couldn’t see Gilbert’s fastball.
Next Steps for Gilbert
While a definitive timeline for Gilbert’s return remains fluid, the team is proceeding cautiously.Kramer further reported on “X” that the tentative plan for Gilbert is for him to throw another bullpen then perhaps a live BP, but that’s not cemented.
His bullpen session Friday focused on location, pitch mix and how he was feeling during and after.
Gilbert’s Dominance Before Injury
Before landing on the injured list, Gilbert was a dominant force on the mound. He boasted a 2.37 ERA with 44 strikeouts in 30.1 innings pitched across six starts, accompanied by an impressive 0.79 WHIP. His performance placed him among the league leaders in strikeouts.
In 2024, Gilbert joined the 200/200 club, showcasing his endurance and strikeout ability. He finished the year with a 3.23 ERA and 220 strikeouts in 208.2 innings pitched across 33 starts. Gilbert also led the major leagues with a 0.89 WHIP and earned his first All-Star selection.
Mariners’ Rotation Health
The Mariners have faced challenges with their pitching rotation this season, a stark contrast to their remarkable health in 2024. Last year, Seattle utilized only seven starting pitchers, with four of them starting 30 or more games. This season, they have already matched that number and will exceed it when Kirby makes his season debut.
Related Stories
- MARINERS PITCHER GEORGE KIRBY REJOINS TEAM ON ROAD TRIP: The former Mariners All-Star is nearing his activation off the injured list according to a report. CLICK HERE
- MARINERS SECURE SERIES WIN WITH 4-1 VICTORY OVER PADRES: The Mariners won the 10th series of their last 12 in the first leg of a 10-game road trip. CLICK HERE
- MARINERS SHORTSTOP J.P. CRAWFORD MAKES FRANCHISE HISTORY IN LATEST GAME: The Mariners longest-tenured position player moved up the club record books in an astonishing category after his home run against the San Diego Padres on Friday.CLICK HERE
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