Seattle Mariners' Bryce Miller Begins Rehab Assignment Amid Rotation Dilemma

The Seattle Mariners have reinstated infielder/outfielder Rob Refsnyder from the paternity list while placing outfielder Patrick Wisdom on the 10-day injured list. This transition comes as right-hander Bryce Miller, who has been sidelined since February due to a left oblique strain, begins a rehab assignment with Triple-A Tacoma. Mariners General Manager Justin Hollander indicated that Miller is expected to take about a month to fully build up before rejoining the major league roster.

ESPNMyNorthwestBryce Miller to begin rehab assignment, creating good problem for Mariners

Miller's injury history has been marked by a series of setbacks. He expressed frustration over his recent injuries, stating, “It was weird because I went a long time without any injuries... and then last year, on and off the IL.” His current rehab assignment is critical as he aims to recover from the oblique strain, which is unrelated to previous elbow issues. Miller's initial rehab outing will be limited to two innings or 30 pitches, with plans to gradually increase his workload in subsequent outings.

MyNorthwest

The Mariners have closely monitored Miller's recovery process, particularly his ability to bounce back after pitching. Hollander noted that lingering soreness had previously hindered Miller's progress, but recent assessments indicate that he feels “100% completely normal.” Miller himself described the recovery as a “roller coaster,” highlighting the challenges he faced in regaining his form. He has been focusing on refining his pitching mechanics and experimenting with a new slider grip, which he hopes will enhance his performance upon return.

MyNorthwest

As Miller prepares for his return, the Mariners face a potential dilemma in their starting rotation. Emerson Hancock, who has stepped in for Miller, is performing exceptionally well with a 2.28 ERA over his first four starts. Hollander acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, “If we get a month from now and that’s what happens, we’ll figure it out.” The Mariners have not made any definitive decisions regarding the rotation, emphasizing that they will address the matter as it arises.

MyNorthwest

General Manager Justin Hollander expressed optimism about Miller's recovery, stating, “He feels great right now... really excited about where he is and how he’s progressed.” He also noted that the team is not currently concerned about having “too many good starting pitchers,” a situation that is rare in professional baseball.

MyNorthwest

• “I was on a 27 year streak without an oblique injury, so if I restarted it, that gives me another 27 or so.” — Bryce Miller, Seattle Mariners Pitcher

Bryce Miller to begin rehab assignment, creating good problem for Mariners

• “It was kind of a roller coaster of a rehab process,” — Bryce Miller, Seattle Mariners Pitcher

Bryce Miller to begin rehab assignment, creating good problem for Mariners

• “If we get to be a month from now and that’s what happens, we’ll figure it out.” — Justin Hollander, Mariners General Manager

Bryce Miller to begin rehab assignment, creating good problem for Mariners

As the Mariners navigate these developments, they remain focused on optimizing their roster while ensuring Miller's safe return to the mound.

MyNorthwest