Mariners’ Polanco Returns Amid Injury Management

SEATTLE, WA — Jorge Polanco is back in the Seattle Mariners‘ lineup on Tuesday, April 22, against the Boston Red Sox after a brief absence due to a side injury.

Polanco, who has been one of the team’s hottest hitters this season, will bat second and serve as the designated hitter. Still, his injury has limited his effectiveness, particularly against left-handed pitchers.

On Wednesday, April 23, Polanco will not play as he continues to manage this side injury. He has not started at third base since April 4 and has only six plate appearances against left-handed pitching this season.

This ongoing issue means that Polanco may be used primarily as a strong-side platoon player until he fully recovers. In Polanco’s absence, Mitch Garver will step in as the designated hitter while the Mariners face left-handed pitcher Sean Newcomb from the Red Sox.

The Mariners are riding a wave of success, winning five consecutive series after a rocky start to the season. As they return home for a series against the Miami Marlins, the team hopes to capitalize on their offensive momentum and reset their pitching staff.

Logan Gilbert, the ace of the Mariners’ staff, is scheduled to start Friday night against the Marlins in a game that could be pivotal for Seattle. Despite Gilbert’s strong performance this season, the team will need him to work efficiently to conserve bullpen arms for the series ahead.

Marlins pitcher Cal Quantrill, who signed with the team this offseason, has struggled with command, allowing nine walks in 17.1 innings pitched. This could play into the Mariners’ hands, as they seek to exploit Quantrill’s weaknesses.

As the AL West race heats up, Seattle sees a golden opportunity to gain ground while division rivals, like the Texas Rangers, deal with injuries to key players.

The Mariners aim to build on their streak with hopes that Polanco will soon be fully healthy and able to resume his fielding duties.