SEATTLE — After weeks of speculation and growing concern from the fanbase, Seattle Mariners General Manager Justin Hollander broke his silence Friday morning with a critical injury update on two of the franchise’s most important arms — Bryce Miller and Logan Gilbert.
With the Mariners locked in a fierce AL West battle and pitching depth wearing thin, the fate of Miller and Gilbert has loomed large over the team’s postseason hopes. Now, fans finally have clarity — and reason for cautious optimism.
Bryce Miller: Nearing Return
According to Hollander, Bryce Miller is “well ahead of schedule” in his recovery from the forearm tightness that sidelined him three weeks ago. Initially feared to be a long-term issue, the 25-year-old flamethrower has responded exceptionally well to treatment and light throwing sessions.
> “Bryce has been progressing at a pace we didn’t anticipate,” Hollander told reporters. “We’re optimistic he could begin a rehab start within the next 7-10 days.”
Miller has been a revelation this season, posting a 3.31 ERA and striking out 94 batters in 81 innings. His electric fastball and aggressive mound presence made him an instant fan favorite, and his absence has been sorely felt — especially with the bullpen being stretched to its limit.
Logan Gilbert: Targeting All-Star Break Return
As for Logan Gilbert, the update is more measured — but still encouraging.
> “We’re targeting the All-Star break as a realistic return window,” Hollander confirmed.
Gilbert, who has battled lingering shoulder inflammation, was placed on the IL in early May after reporting discomfort following a start against the Blue Jays. The team’s medical staff has taken a conservative approach, hoping to ensure full recovery before ramping up intensity.
Still, the GM made it clear: there’s no structural damage, and surgery has not been discussed.
> “He’s throwing flat-ground right now and responding well,” Hollander said. “We’re going to be careful, but all signs are pointing in the right direction.”
Rotation Reinforcements Incoming
With Miller possibly returning within two weeks and Gilbert in line for a post-All-Star activation, the Mariners may soon regain two foundational pieces of their rotation — just as the dog days of summer arrive.
In the meantime, Seattle will continue to rely on rookie call-ups and bullpen openers to stay afloat. Pitchers like Emerson Hancock and Jhonathan Díaz have been admirable stopgaps, but the return of Miller and Gilbert will be a seismic boost.
Playoff Implications
The AL West race remains brutal. With the Rangers and Astros both heating up and the Angels hanging around, every series matters. The Mariners currently sit just 1.5 games back of a Wild Card spot, and many analysts believe a healthy rotation could make them a dark horse playoff threat.
> “You get Miller and Gilbert back in top form, and this team can beat anybody,” one AL scout said. “That’s how much those two matter.”
For now, Seattle fans can breathe a little easier. Reinforcements are on the way — and they just might arrive in time to save the season.