Injury Updates: Key Pitchers Near Return
The Seattle Mariners are working through a challenging stretch as several key pitchers recover from injuries. Bryce Miller, who was placed on the 15-day injured list two weeks ago with right elbow inflammation, is close to returning. According to General Manager Justin Hollander, Miller threw a successful bullpen session on May 26 and is expected to rejoin the rotation during the team’s nine-game homestand that began Tuesday, May 27, against the Washington Nationals. The team believes the inflammation has been addressed, and Miller’s bone spur is not expected to delay his return. This is a positive sign for a rotation that has been tested by injuries.
Another key arm, Logan Gilbert, is also progressing. Gilbert, who went on the injured list in late April with a flexor strain in his right elbow, began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Tacoma on May 29. His first outing was scheduled for three innings, and he will need multiple minor league appearances before returning to the major league roster. The Mariners have not set a firm date for his return, but if his rehab goes well, he could be back by mid-June. Gilbert’s early season numbers were strong, posting a 2.37 ERA with 44 strikeouts in his first six starts.
George Kirby and Rotation Plans
George Kirby made his season debut on May 23 after missing time with spring training shoulder inflammation. He pitched well against the Houston Astros and is scheduled for his second start on May 28 against the Nationals. With Miller and Gilbert nearing returns, the Mariners plan to stick with a five-man rotation but may use a sixth starter occasionally. Hollander explained that while a six-man rotation is intriguing, roster limits and pitcher routines make it difficult to implement full-time. The team will monitor health and performance before making any changes.
Outfield Injuries: Raley Nears Return, Robles Still Out
The Mariners’ outfield has also been hit by injuries. Luke Raley, who suffered a right oblique strain on April 27, is close to returning. He rejoined the team in Seattle on May 28 to ramp up swinging activities and is scheduled for a minor league rehab assignment the week of June 3. If all goes well, Raley could rejoin the major league roster by mid-June. His return will add depth to the outfield, especially with recent acquisition Leody Taveras filling in since joining from the Texas Rangers.
Meanwhile, Victor Robles remains sidelined after dislocating and fracturing his left shoulder on April 6. The latest update from Hollander suggests Robles is at least six weeks away from starting baseball activities, with a possible return in September. This timeline means Robles will have little time to prepare for a potential playoff run, making his recovery a long-term concern for the team.
Jorge Polanco’s Switch-Hitting Return
Switch-hitting designated hitter Jorge Polanco has been a bright spot for the Mariners in 2025. After being limited to left-handed at-bats for much of the season, Polanco returned to the right side of the plate on May 27 against Nationals lefty MacKenzie Gore. Manager Dan Wilson confirmed that Polanco is now comfortable switch-hitting again, though the team will continue to monitor him. Polanco’s season stats include 18 runs, 10 home runs, and 30 RBIs in 42 games, with a .274 batting average and .868 OPS. However, his production dipped in May, hitting just .145 with one home run over 20 games. The Mariners hope his return to full switch-hitting will boost the lineup as June approaches.
Recent Game Results and Player Highlights
The Mariners have experienced mixed results on the field. On May 27, reliever Collin Snider allowed seven runs in the tenth inning, leading to a 9–3 loss to the Nationals. Earlier in the week, rookie right-hander Logan Evans delivered a standout performance, pitching eight innings of one-run ball in a 9–1 win over Washington on May 25. Catcher Cal Raleigh hit two home runs in that game, bringing his season total to 19, the most by any primary catcher through the team’s first 53 games. Raleigh’s improvement hitting from the right side has been a key development for the Mariners’ offense.
Other Roster Moves and Injury Updates
The Mariners have made several other roster moves to address injuries. Right-hander Jackson Kowar is nearing activation after Tommy John surgery, having pitched well in minor league rehab appearances. Relievers Gregory Santos and Tayler Saucedo are progressing through throwing programs and could return by July. Trent Thornton is recovering from appendicitis surgery and may begin a rehab assignment soon. Top prospect Felnin Celesten returned to action after missing time with dizziness and is expected to resume playing shortstop soon.
AL West Standings and Team Outlook
Despite a difficult month of May, the Mariners are barely holding onto their lead in the AL West. Three main issues—injuries, inconsistent offense, and bullpen struggles—have contributed to their recent slide. The Texas Rangers remain close behind, though their offense has also struggled. The Mariners’ resilience and ability to weather injuries have kept them in contention, but the team will need improved health and performance to maintain their division lead.
Looking Ahead: Key Dates and Storylines
As June approaches, the Mariners are focused on getting healthy and stabilizing their roster. The returns of Miller, Gilbert, and Raley will be closely watched, as will Polanco’s performance as a switch-hitter. The team’s ability to manage its rotation and bullpen will be critical in the tight AL West race. With several players nearing returns and young talent stepping up, the Mariners hope to regain momentum and strengthen their playoff chances in the coming weeks.