Mariners Call Up Patrick Wisdom as Roster Adjustments Continue
The Seattle Mariners have officially added veteran infielder Patrick Wisdom to their active roster, making a series of moves to accommodate the change. Wisdom steps in to replace Rob Refsnyder, who has been temporarily placed on the paternity list. In order to create space on the 40-man roster, Seattle designated right-handed pitcher Blas Castaño for assignment.
At 34 years old, Wisdom is making his return to Major League Baseball for the first time since the 2024 season. He previously spent multiple years with the Chicago Cubs, where he became known for his powerful hitting style. During his time in Chicago from 2021 through 2023, Wisdom consistently delivered home run production, hitting at least 23 long balls each season. However, his offensive approach also came with a downside, as he posted high strikeout rates of 34% or more in each of those years.
His performance dipped in 2024, which led him to continue his career overseas in South Korea in 2025. While playing for the Kia Tigers, Wisdom experienced a resurgence at the plate. He launched 35 home runs and showed improvement in his strikeout rate, lowering it to 29.2%. His strong showing abroad helped him earn another opportunity in North America, ultimately signing a minor league contract with Seattle.
Since joining the Mariners’ organization, Wisdom has been red-hot in Triple-A. In just 15 games, he has already hit nine home runs, showcasing the same power that defined his earlier MLB career. Additionally, his strikeout rate has dropped to 22.6%, a significant improvement compared to his past major league numbers, though it’s worth noting he has been facing less advanced pitching. Even within the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League, his .264 batting average, .371 on-base percentage, and .774 slugging percentage stand out as well above average.
Defensively, Wisdom has primarily been a third baseman during his major league tenure, but this season he has been used mainly at first base and as a designated hitter. The Mariners currently have Josh Naylor handling first base duties, while the designated hitter role has been shared between Refsnyder, a right-handed batter, and left-handed hitter Dominic Canzone. With Refsnyder temporarily unavailable, Wisdom could slot into that platoon role, particularly given his slightly stronger performance against left-handed pitching. Over his career, he has posted better numbers versus southpaws compared to right-handed pitchers.
Refsnyder’s absence is expected to be brief, as paternity leave typically lasts between one and three days unless special circumstances arise. Once he returns, the Mariners will face a decision regarding Wisdom’s future. Because Wisdom has less than five years of major league service time, he still has minor league options remaining, meaning the team could send him back to Triple-A without exposing him to waivers. However, depending on roster needs and contract details, he could remain with the team as additional depth. Connor Joe, another bench option who hasn’t seen much playing time, could also factor into those decisions.
Meanwhile, Blas Castaño’s designation for assignment places his future with the organization in question. The 27-year-old pitcher has had limited major league experience, making just one appearance last season. Although he has served primarily as depth in the minors, teams in need of pitching could show interest. The Mariners now have up to a week to either trade him or attempt to pass him through waivers, after which he could remain in the organization as a non-roster option if unclaimed.
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