The Seattle Mariners will bring their ace pitcher, Logan Gilbert, back from the injured list to start Monday’s home opener against the Boston Red Sox, according to manager Dan Wilson. Gilbert’s return marks a pivotal moment for the Mariners as they look to strengthen their rotation during this crucial series at T-Mobile Park.
Details of Gilbert’s Injury and Rehabilitation
Logan Gilbert was placed on the 15-day injured list on April 26 due to a flexor strain in his right elbow. Since then, he has completed three rehab starts with the Mariners’ Triple-A affiliate in Tacoma, showing encouraging progress. In his latest outing on Wednesday night, Gilbert pitched five shutout innings, striking out six batters and allowing just one hit and one walk.
On Friday, Gilbert threw a bullpen session at T-Mobile Park, which served as his final test before rejoining the major league roster. Manager Dan Wilson expressed optimism about Gilbert’s condition and timing for his comeback.
“Looking forward to obviously getting him back,” Wilson said. “It’s been a stretch without him and (it will) be good to get him back. And I think the rehab has gone really well, he’s in a good spot. It’s good timing for him.” —Dan Wilson, Seattle Mariners Manager
Pitching Readiness and Expectations for Return
During Gilbert’s most recent rehab start, he increased his pitch count to 72 and touched a four-seam fastball velocity of 97.6 mph. Wilson hopes that Gilbert will be able to throw at least 80 pitches when he faces the Red Sox, which would indicate readiness to pitch deeper into games right away.
“I think that’s a big advantage of getting that extra start down in Tacoma is that you’re able to make a little bit bigger impact here when you get back,” Wilson added.
Rotation Challenges and Other Key Mariners Pitchers
Gilbert’s return provides a boost to a Mariners rotation currently dealing with injuries, including right-hander Bryce Miller, who was recently placed on the 15-day IL with right elbow inflammation. Miller has been treated with a platelet-rich plasma injection and is expected to be sidelined for at least two weeks, with a potential return timeline of four to six weeks pending recovery, according to general manager Justin Hollander.
Meanwhile, George Kirby has regained form, delivering strong performances in his last two starts. Kirby struck out 14 batters over seven innings against the Angels last week and pitched five innings of two-run ball in a win over the Guardians on Saturday.
“I think you feel like you’re sort of getting back to normal in some ways,” Wilson remarked regarding the return of Gilbert and Kirby. “These guys over the years have proven just how solid they are, how experienced they are, how consistent they’ve been, and getting that back into your rotation is key.” —Dan Wilson, Seattle Mariners Manager
Gilbert’s Career Performance and Impact on Team
Before his injury, Logan Gilbert posted a 1-1 record with a 2.37 ERA across 30 and one-third innings, marking the first time he was placed on the IL in his major league career. Last season, he led Major League Baseball in innings pitched (208 2/3) and WHIP (0.0887), which earned him his first All-Star selection and a sixth-place finish in the American League Cy Young Award voting.
The Mariners will look to capitalize on Gilbert’s return as they complete a three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians, with a chance for a sweep in the game scheduled Sunday afternoon. Fans can tune in to radio coverage beginning at noon on 710 AM Seattle Sports and the Seattle Sports app.
Additional Seattle Mariners Updates
Other notable news from the Mariners includes Jorge Polanco hitting his first right-handed home run of the season and ongoing trade target discussions involving the AL West rival teams. Updates on other players such as Luke Raley’s possible return and insights from ESPN’s Scruggs on key factors for a Mariners turnaround are also developments attracting attention.