The Seattle Mariners have triumphed over the Detroit Tigers in an exhilarating 15-inning Game Five of the American League Division Series (ALDS). This victory propels them into their first American League Championship Series (ALCS) since 2001. As the Mariners prepare for this significant milestone, they anticipate the return of right-handed pitcher Bryan Woo to their roster.
Bryan Woo Joins Mariners’ Roster for ALCS
Bryan Woo’s addition to the roster was confirmed by Jerry Dipoto, the Mariners’ president of baseball operations. He indicated that Woo is likely to be ready for a start when the series shifts to Seattle for Games 3, 4, and potentially 5. However, it remains uncertain when exactly he will pitch, as he may not take the mound until the midpoint of the series.
Pitching Strategy and Challenges
As the Mariners look ahead, the starting lineup for the initial games in Toronto remains ambiguous. The team had to utilize key starters such as Logan Gilbert and Luis Castillo out of the bullpen during the lengthy Game Five. Gilbert threw 34 pitches across two innings, while Castillo managed 15 pitches over 1.1 innings.
- Game 1: Likely starting pitcher Bryce Miller.
- Game 2: Expected starter Castillo or possibly Gilbert.
- Future Games: Potential starting rotation includes Gilbert for Game 3, George Kirby for Game 4, and Bryan Woo in Game 5.
Dipoto hinted that “creativity” will be necessary due to the extensive pitching used in the last game. Miller would be pitching on three days’ rest, so the bullpen is anticipated to play a significant role in the early games.
Bryan Woo’s Performance and Recovery
Woo concluded the regular season with an impressive 2.94 ERA over 186.2 innings. Unfortunately, he experienced pectoral tightness during a game on September 19, leading to his exit after five scoreless innings. Although Woo did not land on the 15-day injured list, he has not pitched since then. He prepared for the ALDS with a bullpen session and simulated inning.
Prior to Game 5, Woo was reported to have thrown approximately 30 pitches in practice, gradually increasing his intensity from 75% to near full effort. This preparation indicates that he is gearing up for his participation in the ALCS.
Mariners’ Roster Adjustments
The Mariners and Toronto Blue Jays will finalize their ALCS rosters soon. Given the move to a seven-game series, the Mariners are expected to carry an additional pitcher. This adjustment may lead to the exclusion of a rookie such as Ben Williamson or Harry Ford from the final roster.
Fans of the Seattle Mariners eagerly await further news, particularly regarding Bryan Woo’s involvement in this pivotal series. The team’s journey has been marked by resilience, and they are poised to create new history in the ALCS.
