The Seattle Mariners announced on May 8 that Brendan Donovan has been reinstated from the 10-day injured list and returned to the leadoff spot for Friday’s game against the Chicago White Sox. Catcher Jhonny Pereda was optioned to Triple-A Tacoma as a corresponding move.
Donovan’s return comes as a boost for the Mariners, who have struggled offensively in recent games. He had been sidelined since April 17 with a left groin muscle strain but played one game at Double-A Arkansas before rejoining the team. Prior to his injury, Donovan was batting .304 with three home runs and eight RBIs in 18 games.
Cal Raleigh also resumed his role behind the plate for Friday’s matchup, marking his first start at catcher since missing three games due to soreness in his right side. Manager Dan Wilson said Raleigh has not experienced any lingering soreness since returning on Tuesday and is able to swing without issues.
Donovan explained that he is still learning about recovery following sports hernia surgery last October, saying, “I’m still learning a lot about recovery and things I can do to keep my hips healthy after my surgery.” He added, “I think workload is one of those things, and pelvic positioning is another thing. That’s something that we have to attack in the weight room and in the training room every day.”
Both players are expected to be managed carefully as they work back into regular action. The Mariners hope their presence will help improve an offense that entered Friday tied for last place in American League batting average (.229) and ranked near the bottom in runs scored.
