Seattle Mariners utility standout Brendan Donovan was held out of the lineup against the Texas Rangers on Saturday after experiencing discomfort in his left hip during the previous night’s game. The issue surfaced when Donovan exited Friday’s loss, prompting the team to take a cautious approach moving forward.
Manager Dan Wilson explained that the discomfort may have originated from a defensive play at third base, specifically on a throw he made during the game. While the exact severity isn’t fully known, the Mariners are treating the situation carefully and evaluating him on a day-to-day basis. Given Donovan’s recent medical history, the organization is unwilling to take unnecessary risks.
Earlier in the season, Donovan had already dealt with minor groin and hip concerns. Those issues are particularly significant because he underwent offseason surgery to repair a sports hernia. As a result, the Mariners’ medical staff is closely monitoring anything related to his core area. Wilson emphasized that recovery from such a procedure requires ongoing attention, even after a successful spring training period.
Despite these setbacks, Donovan has been highly productive when healthy. Through 18 games this season, he has delivered an impressive offensive performance, posting a .304 batting average along with a .437 on-base percentage and a .518 slugging percentage. His contributions include three doubles, three home runs, and eight RBIs, along with nine walks against 12 strikeouts. Those numbers highlight his importance to Seattle’s lineup and explain why the team is prioritizing his long-term availability over short-term gains.
To help manage his workload and reduce the risk of further irritation, the Mariners are considering adjustments. These could include giving Donovan occasional starts as a designated hitter or modifying his defensive responsibilities. According to Wilson, such flexibility is part of the natural rhythm of a baseball season, where teams must constantly adapt to keep players healthy and productive.
Meanwhile, pitcher Bryce Miller took a step forward in his recovery process by making a rehab start with Triple-A Tacoma. Appearing in his first game action since late February, Miller showed flashes of his potential but also signs of rust. He was scheduled to throw around two innings or 30 pitches but ended up being removed just before completing the second inning.
Miller opened strong, delivering a scoreless first inning despite issuing a walk. However, the second inning proved more challenging. He allowed consecutive hits to start the frame and eventually gave up three runs, including a two-run double. After reaching 33 pitches, he was taken out of the game.
On a positive note, Miller’s velocity was encouraging, with his fastball ranging between 96 and 98 mph. He also mixed in his full pitch arsenal, an important step in regaining form. The plan moving forward is for him to continue his rehab progression, with another outing expected later in the week at the High-A level.
Overall, the Mariners are balancing caution and optimism—carefully managing Donovan’s health while gradually working Miller back into game shape.
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