Seattle Mariners Roster Updates
The Seattle Mariners have made significant changes to their roster recently. The team claimed Duke Ellis, a speedy outfielder, off waivers from the New York Mets. Ellis, 26, will join the Triple-A Tacoma Rainiers and fills an open spot on Seattle’s 40-man roster. Originally a 20th-round pick in the 2017 MLB Draft by the San Diego Padres, Ellis did not sign and later transferred from Panola College to the University of Texas. He joined the Chicago White Sox as an undrafted free agent in 2020 and made his MLB debut last month, appearing in eight games mostly as a pinch-runner. Although he was hitless in four at-bats, he was perfect on stolen bases, going 4-for-4. The Mets claimed him off waivers on June 21 and designated him for assignment on June 30. This year, Ellis has a minor league slash line of .254/.333/.299 with one homer, three doubles, and 34 steals in 37 attempts across three teams.
Pitching Updates: Bryan Woo and Gabe Speier
Right-hander Bryan Woo is set to go on a rehab assignment with the High-A Everett AquaSox soon. Woo has been on the injured list with a hamstring strain since June 24. When healthy, Woo has been stellar this season, despite missing over a month due to elbow inflammation. He has a record of 3-1 with a 1.77 ERA, 0.689 WHIP, and 28 strikeouts to just three walks and one hit batter in eight starts.
Left-hander Gabe Speier is also making progress in his recovery from a rotator cuff strain. Speier will throw live batting practice during the Mariners’ next road trip following their home series against the Toronto Blue Jays. Speier has been out since late May and has a season ERA of 6.06 and WHIP of 1.47 in 22 appearances. However, he had a strong early-season performance with a 0.84 ERA and 0.66 WHIP through his first twelve appearances. Last season, Speier was notable for his breakout performance, finishing with a 3.79 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, seventeen holds, and one save in sixty-nine outings.
Trade Proposal: Cody Bellinger
The Mariners are considering a trade proposal to acquire Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs. Bellinger, a former MVP, could be a potential fit for the Mariners due to the Cubs’ recent struggles. The Mariners, who are leading the American League West with a 47-40 record, are looking for an “everyday bat” and bullpen help before the July 30 trade deadline. The proposed trade details suggest that the Mariners could offer Clase, their No. 10 prospect, who stole 79 bases in High-A Everett and Double-A Arkansas in 2023. Bellinger, who signed a three-year, $80 million deal with the Cubs before this season, is batting .267 with a strikeout rate in the 77th percentile. This is a significant improvement compared to the Mariners’ MLB-low .218 average and high strikeouts.
Recent Game Performances
The Mariners recently ended a four-game losing streak with a win over the Baltimore Orioles. Julio Rodríguez homered for the first time since June 15, and J.P. Crawford hit a tiebreaking three-run double, leading to a 7-3 victory. However, the team had previously lost four straight games, including another loss to Baltimore with a score of 4-1.
Injury Updates: Mitch Garver and Luke Raley
The Mariners lost 5-3 to the Minnesota Twins on Sunday afternoon at T-Mobile Park. This loss marked the first time since mid-April that the Mariners have lost back-to-back games at home. During the game, two key players sustained injuries. Catcher/DH Mitch Garver was hit by a pitch in the second inning, causing him to leave the game. As a result, Cal Raleigh had to move from DH to catcher, forcing the Mariners to use the pitcher’s spot in the lineup. Outfielder/first baseman Luke Raley fouled a ball off his foot in the ninth inning. Post-game updates provided by manager Scott Servais indicated that X-rays on Garver’s wrist were negative, and further assessment will be made after an off day. There was no specific update on Raley, but he was seen walking gingerly in the clubhouse after being hit on top of his left foot.
Upcoming Challenges and Standings
The Mariners’ 10-game lead in the AL West from two weeks ago has significantly decreased. Despite having a day off on Monday, Seattle’s division lead shrank due to the Houston Astros‘ continued winning streak. The Astros defeated the Blue Jays 3-1 on Canada Day in Toronto, reducing the Mariners’ lead to just three games. Currently, the Mariners have a record of 47-39, while the Astros are at 43-41, having won 10 of their last 11 games. The Mariners are set to open a tough three-game series against the Orioles, who are tied for first place in both the AL East and overall American League standings.
Manager’s Confidence and Future Prospects
Manager Scott Servais remains confident that the Mariners’ offense will improve despite current struggles. MLB insider Mark DeRosa analyzed Julio Rodríguez’s ongoing slump and potential solutions on “MLB Central.” Additionally, the return of Gregory Santos from injury could significantly bolster the bullpen, according to Mike Blowers. The Mariners recently ended their bullpen experiment with prospect Logan Evans, who will return to starting pitching duties.
In conclusion, the Seattle Mariners are navigating a challenging period with roster changes, injury recoveries, and trade considerations. The team aims to strengthen its lineup and bullpen as they continue to compete in the AL West. Fans can look forward to upcoming games and the potential acquisition of key players to boost the Mariners’ performance.
