Mariners starting pitcher Bryan Woo will not be taking the mound for the start of the 2024 season. Seattle’s depth in the starting rotation faces an immediate test, with Woo being placed on the 15-day injured list due to inflammation in his right elbow.
The decision came after Woo experienced discomfort during a bullpen session, prompting a medical evaluation, including an MRI in Arizona. Fortunately, the tests revealed no structural damage to his previously surgically repaired ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), indicating only mild inflammation. The team expects him to resume throwing after a week of rest, paralleling a similar situation from August of the previous year, when Woo was on the IL for 17 days.
Despite Woo’s setback, the Mariners have a replacement ready in right-hander Emerson Hancock, originally slated for Triple-A Tacoma. Hancock will fill in for Woo in the starting rotation, beginning with an exhibition game against the Padres followed by the season opener against the Cleveland Guardians. The team has expressed confidence in Hancock’s development, particularly impressed by his recent performance against the Diamondbacks.
Additionally, the Mariners provided updates on other injured players. Utility player Sam Haggerty will start the season on the 10-day IL due to a non-baseball-related medical issue, while relievers Matt Brash, Gregory Santos, and Eduard Bazardo will also begin on the 15-day IL due to various injuries. Brash’s recovery progress is closely monitored, with expectations for him to return sometime after May 1st, while Bazardo is projected to be game-ready by the end of April. Santos’s return hinges on the results of an upcoming MRI to assess the status of shoulder inflammation.
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