SEATTLE — The Seattle Mariners have encountered significant challenges in their bullpen this season, largely due to a series of injuries affecting key players. General manager Justin Hollander addressed the media prior to a game against the Oakland Athletics at T-Mobile Park, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by the team.
In recent weeks, the Mariners have seen the return of high-leverage right-handed relievers Carlos Vargas and Cooper Criswell, who have rejoined the major league roster after extended absences. However, Matt Brash's situation remains concerning as he continues to deal with a right lat strain that has sidelined him since June 10.
Brash recently attempted to ramp up his recovery by throwing a bullpen session during the Mariners' series against the Boston Red Sox. While he initially felt good during the session, he later experienced tightness in the same lat area, prompting an MRI on Wednesday to assess the situation further.
"He has bounced back reasonably, not as much as we would have hoped," Hollander stated. He explained that Brash has been able to throw bullpens but has not advanced to live batting practice or game situations. This pattern of feeling good during workouts but experiencing tightness afterward has raised concerns about pushing him back too soon. Hollander emphasized the importance of avoiding further injury or a recurrence of the current issue.
This marks the second time this season that Brash has been placed on the injured list due to the same injury. Despite his setbacks, he has demonstrated impressive performance when healthy, recording a 0.54 ERA with 15 strikeouts over 16.2 innings in 20 appearances.
In addition to Brash's situation, the Mariners are also managing several other injury concerns within the team. Utility player Brendan Donovan is currently in concussion protocol, and Hollander could not confirm whether Donovan would require a rehab assignment or if he would be activated directly to the major league roster.
Outfielder Victor Robles has been placed on the Family Medical Emergency list, leading to the recall of Stuart Fairchild from the Triple-A Tacoma Rainiers. The organization has expressed support for Robles and his family during this time.
Right-handed reliever Nick Davila is expected to undergo an MRI on Wednesday, with the team fearing a sprain or stress reaction in his rib, which would sideline him for the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, Cole Wilcox, another right-handed reliever, may be able to throw this weekend, and if successful, could begin rehab assignments with the Rainiers, potentially returning before the end of the season.
The Mariners also faced setbacks with minor league players, as outfielder Brennen Davis was placed on the 60-day injured list due to a hamstring strain and an oblique strain suffered during his recovery. Additionally, right-handed starter Emerson Hancock, who is dealing with a left adductor strain, will throw from flat ground or a mound on Sunday to determine his progression. Top 100 prospect Felnin Celesten has been shut down for the season due to a minor groin strain, as he was placed on the 7-day injured list while with the Double-A Arkansas Travelers.
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