Injury Concerns
George Kirby is unlikely to pitch during the first 10 days of the regular season due to right shoulder inflammation. His availability remains uncertain on a week-to-week basis, adding extra pressure on the team’s returning starters as they prepare for the season ahead.
Opening Day Decision
The Mariners are set to make a critical decision for the season opener against the Athletics on March 27. Manager Dan Wilson revealed that the starting pitcher designation will come down to either Luis Castillo or Logan Gilbert. The final announcement is imminent as the team prepares to kick off the season without Kirby.
Pitcher Profiles
Luis Castillo has established himself as a reliable veteran, serving as the Opening Day pitcher for the past two seasons and earning an All-Star recognition in 2023. His performance over the last two seasons has been impressive, with none of his season ERAs rising above 3.64, underscoring his consistent contribution to the team’s rotation.
In contrast, Logan Gilbert has rapidly emerged as a leading figure for the Mariners. Having been named to his first All-Star team in 2024, Gilbert led the team in several key pitching metrics—innings pitched, strikeouts, game starts, quality starts, and WHIP. His remarkable season included 33 starts, 220 strikeouts, and a 3.23 ERA across 208.2 innings, positioning him as a strong contender for the role of the ace.
Spring Training Performance
Recent spring training appearances have added another layer to the decision-making process. Castillo posted a 3.38 ERA with four strikeouts over eight innings across three starts, reflecting his steady form as the club’s No. 1 pitcher. Meanwhile, Gilbert’s spring training stats showed a 6.75 ERA with eight strikeouts in 5.1 innings over his three outings, indicating some adjustment areas as he continues to build momentum for the upcoming season.
The choice between Castillo and Gilbert is pivotal, with both pitchers bringing distinct strengths and achievements to the mound. The Mariners now look forward to a decision that will set the tone as they strive to overcome challenges early in the season.