UPDATE: The Seattle Mariners have officially left All-Star Bryan Woo off their roster for the American League Division Series (ALDS) against the Detroit Tigers, underscoring his struggle to recover from a recent pectoral injury. This significant decision was made just hours before the first game, which begins on October 7, 2023.
The Mariners plan to start George Kirby and Luis Castillo in the first two games of the best-of-five series, with Logan Gilbert taking the mound for Game 3. Woo’s absence leaves Bryce Miller as the fourth member of the rotation, who may also see action out of the bullpen.
This decision comes after Woo, who enjoyed a breakout season with a record of 15-7 and a 2.94 ERA in 30 starts, was sidelined due to right pectoral inflammation. He exited his last game on September 19 after only a few warmup pitches in the sixth inning, raising concerns about his fitness for playoff action.
Despite the setback, Woo showed promising signs on Thursday, throwing a higher-intensity bullpen session and pitching a simulated inning against teammates. Afterward, he expressed cautious optimism, stating, “I’m still not where I want to be in terms of game speed of everything. But in terms of how everything has progressed, I’m happy with it, considering that a week ago I wasn’t even throwing yet.”
The Mariners, who clinched the American League West title for the first time in 24 years and earned a first-round bye, had hoped Woo would be ready for the playoffs. However, with his current status, he will miss at least the initial round of postseason play. Fans are now left wondering if he will be fit in time for the AL Championship Series, should the team advance.
As the Mariners gear up for their postseason journey, all eyes will be on Kirby and Castillo to lead the charge against a formidable Tigers lineup. Meanwhile, Woo’s situation remains a focal point, highlighting the unpredictable nature of injuries in high-stakes sports.
Stay tuned for live updates as the series unfolds and the Mariners strive for postseason glory.
