Bryce Miller rejoined the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on April 18, preparing for a Minor League rehab assignment after recovering from a left oblique strain. General manager Justin Hollander said Miller will make his first outing with Triple-A Tacoma on Saturday, marking his return since being sidelined during his first Cactus League start in late February.
Miller’s rehabilitation is expected to take the full 30-day period allowed for pitchers, as he works to rebuild his workload. The Mariners now face a situation where they may have more than five healthy starting pitchers once Miller is ready to return.
“If we get a month from now, and that’s what happens, we’ll figure it out,” Hollander said. “We haven’t made any decisions on that whatsoever. And truthfully, like, God bless us if it is a problem 30 days from now.” He also said that the team would not let current Major League circumstances dictate rehab schedules: “I don’t really think it’s a great way to make decisions if we let what’s happening in the big leagues dictate rehab schedules.”
The performance of Emerson Hancock has contributed to this conversation. Hancock stepped into the rotation during Miller’s absence and has posted strong numbers with a 2.28 ERA over four starts and improved strikeout and walk rates compared to last season. “I don’t really think about it a whole lot,” Hancock said about potential changes in the rotation. “I just get out there, I have a job to do… And I have really good catchers that are bought into that plan.”
Luis Castillo remains an important part of Seattle’s pitching staff despite recent struggles, given his durability over three seasons and status as their highest-paid player.
Looking ahead, Miller expressed confidence in his recovery: “Mainly, just go out and attack how I will in-game,” he said regarding his approach during rehab outings. “I’m not trying to add any pitches or do anything crazy… it’s just getting back on a routine and feeling normal.”
