Seattle Mariners pitcher Bryce Miller provided an encouraging update regarding the oblique injury that recently slowed his progress during spring training in Peoria. While the session wasn’t a full return to game-level intensity, Miller took an important step forward by throwing a controlled bullpen session as he continues working toward full recovery.
During the workout, a small group of reporters gathered around Miller to discuss how he felt returning to the mound. As the media scrum formed, Mariners general manager Justin Hollander walked past and confidently reassured everyone about the pitcher’s condition, saying simply, “He’s fine!” The remark wasn’t meant as optimism or speculation—it came after Hollander had watched Miller complete a short bullpen session consisting of about 20 pitches at a moderate intensity.
Miller himself echoed that confidence afterward, explaining that the session went smoothly. According to the young right-hander, he experienced no discomfort while throwing and felt positive about how his body responded to the workload.
The pitcher followed his usual pre-bullpen routine before taking the mound. That preparation included long toss and other warm-up activities designed to gradually build arm strength. When he began throwing from the mound, Miller worked with catcher Nick Raposo, delivering pitches at roughly 80 percent effort. His fastball velocity sat between 90 and 94 miles per hour, slightly below his typical top speed but strong enough to indicate progress. Along with his fastball, he also mixed in several of his off-speed pitches to maintain a balanced session.
Despite feeling good physically, Miller emphasized that the team is intentionally limiting his workload for now. He admitted that he would prefer to push harder and throw a typical high-intensity bullpen session. However, both he and the organization are focused on ensuring the injury heals completely before ramping up his effort level.
The Mariners’ current plan is to take a careful, step-by-step approach. Miller’s next bullpen session is expected to occur midweek and could involve approximately 25 to 30 pitches at a stronger level of intent. If that outing goes well, he could soon return to Major League Baseball spring training action in Cactus League games. Another possibility is that he first participates in a simulated game before rejoining official spring contests.
Miller said he has spoken with other players who have dealt with oblique injuries in the past, and their advice has shaped his cautious approach. Many warned him that these injuries can linger or worsen if athletes return too quickly. Because of that, he is determined to allow the muscle to fully recover before increasing the intensity of his workload.
Meanwhile, Mariners manager Dan Wilson addressed another topic that has drawn attention during spring training: the team’s Opening Day starting pitcher. When asked whether he was ready to name a starter for the season opener, Wilson indicated that the decision will come later. With more than two weeks remaining before the season begins, the team is still evaluating its rotation options.
One potential candidate is Logan Gilbert, who received the Opening Day assignment last season. Based on Seattle’s plan to have starting pitchers work on a six-day schedule, Gilbert appears well-positioned to take the ball again when the regular season begins.
The Mariners also made a roster adjustment on Sunday by sending right-handed pitcher Ryan Loutos to minor-league camp. Seattle had previously claimed Loutos off waivers from the Washington Nationals in November to strengthen bullpen depth. He is expected to open the season with Triple-A Tacoma after allowing runs in three of his four appearances during spring training.
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