Mariners Fire Manager Scott Servais
The Seattle Mariners have made a significant change in their leadership. On August 22, the team announced the firing of manager Scott Servais. This decision comes amid a slump that has seen the Mariners struggle to maintain their position in the standings. The move aims to shake things up as the team looks to make a late-season push for the playoffs.
Injury Updates: Key Players on the Mend
The Mariners are dealing with several injuries that have impacted their lineup. Victor Robles sat out the series finale against the Dodgers due to a hip flexor strain. The injury occurred during a collision with the wall in right-center field on Tuesday’s game. Robles will be re-evaluated after the Mariners’ off-day on Thursday to determine his return date.
Julio Rodríguez is nearing a return to playing center field, potentially during the next homestand from August 23-28. Rodríguez has been exclusively a designated hitter since coming off the injured list on August 11. The Mariners considered playing him in center field against the Dodgers but decided against it due to the fast outfield grass at Dodger Stadium.
J.P. Crawford is also making progress in his recovery from a right pinkie fracture. Crawford began swinging a bat and facing pitching machines as of August 21. He could start a rehab assignment as soon as the weekend of August 23-25. Crawford has been taking infield practice since August 2 and lightly throwing from 60 feet since then.
Long-Term Injuries: Season-Ending Surgeries
Several Mariners players are out for the season due to significant injuries. Gregory Santos is dealing with right biceps inflammation and has been on the injured list since August 2. Santos initially began the season on the IL with a lat strain and made his Seattle debut on July 9 but faced multiple injuries thereafter.
Matt Brash underwent Tommy John surgery on May 8, ending his season early. Brash joined the Mariners for the homestand starting August 2 to work with the high-performance staff and begin the long throwing program process. He is expected to return in June 2025.
Sam Haggerty tore his right Achilles on May 18 and underwent surgery shortly after. Haggerty has transitioned his recovery to Arizona and is expected to return in May 2025. Jackson Kowar also underwent Tommy John surgery before the season began and was transferred to the 60-day IL. His return is expected sometime in 2025.
Prospect Watch: Felni Celesten’s Season Ends Early
Felni Celesten, ranked No. 5 on the Mariners’ Top Prospects list and No. 73 overall, underwent season-ending left hamate surgery. Celesten’s season ended early for the second straight year due to prolonged pain from an old injury. He played 32 games in the Arizona Complex League with impressive stats, boasting a .352/.431/.568 slash line.
Standings and Playoff Push
The Mariners have 35 games left in the season and are currently 4.5 games behind the Houston Astros for first place in the American League West. They are also 6.5 games out of the third AL Wild Card spot. The Astros’ third baseman Alex Bregman missed a series against the Chicago White Sox due to right elbow inflammation but returned as a designated hitter for Houston’s series finale against Boston on Wednesday. Bregman’s injury could be advantageous for Seattle’s postseason push.
Upcoming Games and Opportunities
The Astros face a tough schedule stretch with upcoming series against the Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies, and Kansas City Royals. This presents an opportune time for the Mariners to make up ground. With one of Houston’s best players injured and facing a challenging schedule, Seattle has a chance to capitalize and improve their standings.
Recent Game Results
The Mariners recently lost to the Los Angeles Dodgers after blowing an early lead. This loss highlights the team’s struggles and the need for a turnaround as the postseason looms. The Mariners are in a familiar position, being behind in both the division and wild card standings, similar to last season.
Social Media and Fan Engagement
Fans are encouraged to follow Inside the Mariners coverage on social media platforms like Facebook and “X” (formerly Twitter) for the latest updates and news. Engaging with the team on social media provides fans with real-time information and a platform to show their support.
In conclusion, the Seattle Mariners are navigating a challenging season with injuries, managerial changes, and a tough race for the playoffs. The team’s ability to overcome these obstacles will be crucial in their quest for a postseason berth. Stay tuned for more updates as the season progresses.
