The Seattle Mariners are nearing the return of a key rotation arm, as Logan Gilbert continues his rehab from a right elbow flexor strain that’s kept him out since late April. Manager Dan Wilson confirmed Friday that Gilbert will make at least one more rehab start with Triple-A Tacoma before rejoining the major league roster.
Logan Gilbert is set to pitch Tuesday at Cheney Stadium, with the goal of increasing his pitch count to around 75 while fine-tuning his command, which remains a work in progress. The Mariners’ decision also strategically delays any immediate changes to their current five-man rotation, giving them flexibility as Gilbert nears a return.
“Just making sure he’s at a good spot and a good pitch count and ready to roll,” manager Dan Wilson said. “We want to be in a position where we’re comfortable with where he’s going.”
Logan Gilbert’s most recent rehab start on Wednesday was encouraging. He threw 60 pitches over three-plus innings, allowing two earned runs on five hits and striking out two. While his velocity did dip from the upper 90s to around 93 mph by the fourth inning, Gilbert downplayed any concerns, indicating he’s focused on building back up steadily.
Mariners will get some help in their rotation soon
“Was it down?” Gilbert said with a laugh when asked on Thursday. “I wasn’t really aware of that. It felt fine. There’s not much room in the dugout tunnel at Cheney, so I couldn’t do my usual in-between innings routine. That might’ve been part of it.”
The 2024 All-Star has kept his fastball velocity steady, averaging 95.4 mph—right in line with his season numbers before his injury. Gilbert is scheduled for a bullpen session Saturday, with pitching coach Pete Woodworth monitoring closely, before heading back to Tacoma for another rehab start.
“I think it’s probably a good call,” Gilbert said about taking another rehab outing. “It’s kind of like spring training. You need two or three outings to feel synced up. There’s no need to rush.”
As Gilbert’s return approaches, the Mariners face a tough roster decision. Seattle is committed to a five-man rotation, so activating Gilbert means someone else has to be moved. Emerson Hancock, once seen as the likely candidate, is making a strong case to stay, boasting a 2.91 ERA over his last four starts—including 5 2/3 innings of one-run ball against the Orioles on Wednesday.
“There’s a lot of things we weigh,” Wilson said. “Emerson has done a fantastic job. But Logan’s situation is independent of that.”
With Bryce Miller also recently back from injury and George Kirby recovering from a scary comebacker to the hand, the Mariners’ rotation is finally approaching full strength. While the upcoming roster decisions won’t be easy, having an abundance of quality pitchers is a challenge every team would welcome.
