Right-hander Bryan Woo has been excluded from the Seattle Mariners’ roster for the American League Division Series (ALDS). According to the Seattle Times’ Adam Jude, the Mariners hope Woo will be available should they proceed to the American League Championship Series (ALCS).
Woo’s Injury History
Woo’s status has been uncertain since September 19, when he exited a game after five innings due to pectoral tightness. The Mariners chose not to put him on the 15-day injured list, indicating that the injury was not overly serious. This decision was seen as a precautionary measure ahead of the playoffs.
After securing the AL West title and earning a first-round bye, expectations grew that Woo would be fit for postseason action. Recently, he participated in a bullpen session and threw a simulated inning, marking his first time pitching off the mound since the injury. Despite reports of a successful bullpen session, discomfort may have influenced the decision to exclude him from the ALDS roster.
Mariners’ Rotation and Performance
The absence of Woo is significant given his impressive 2025 season. He led the Mariners’ pitching staff with 3.6 fWAR, 186.2 innings pitched, and an ERA of 2.94. His 4.5% walk rate was among the best in baseball, complemented by a strong 27.1% strikeout rate.
Woo’s 2025 breakout came after a challenging 2024 season, which was marred by injuries that limited him to 121.1 innings. This year, he made his first All-Star team and established himself as a crucial component of Seattle’s rotation.
Mariners’ ALDS Game Plan
As Game 1 approaches, George Kirby is set to be the Mariners’ starter, followed by Luis Castillo in Game 2. The team has yet to announce the starter for Game 3 in Detroit, though Logan Gilbert is a likely candidate. If needed, Bryce Miller could take the mound for a potential Game 4.
- Game 1 Starter: George Kirby
- Game 2 Starter: Luis Castillo
- Possible Game 3 Starter: Logan Gilbert
- Possible Game 4 Starter: Bryce Miller
Rookie Additions
The final roster for the ALDS has not been fully announced; however, rookie catcher Harry Ford and rookie infielder Ben Williamson are confirmed to be included. Williamson’s presence offers depth at third base should Eugenio Suarez need to shift to first.
Lastly, the availability of Josh Naylor for the series may be impacted by impending paternity leave, as his wife is close to delivering their first child.
