The Mariners are gearing up for a thrilling AL Championship Series, but a key question looms: who will take the mound? With a dramatic 15-inning victory over the Tigers in Game Five of the ALDS, Seattle advances to its first ALCS since 2001, and the pitching staff is about to get a significant boost.
Here's the scoop: Mariners' president of baseball operations, Jerry Dipoto, revealed that right-handed pitcher Bryan Woo is expected to join the team for the ALCS. This announcement comes as a potential game-changer for the Mariners' rotation, but it also raises some intriguing strategic questions.
Dipoto indicated that Woo likely won't pitch until the series shifts to Seattle for Games 3 and 4, and possibly Game 5. This leaves fans wondering who will start the first two games in Toronto. The team's usual starters, Logan Gilbert and Luis Castillo, were utilized out of the bullpen during the marathon Game Five, leaving their availability for the ALCS in question.
Dipoto suggested that Bryce Miller might start Game 1, but with only three days' rest, the bullpen could be called upon for support. Castillo is favored for Game 2, but the subsequent rotation is a strategic puzzle. If the Mariners opt for a full rotation, it could line up Gilbert for Game 3, George Kirby for Game 4, and Woo for Game 5, giving the right-hander ample time to recover from his recent pectoral tightness.
Woo's regular-season performance was impressive, boasting a 2.94 ERA over 186 2/3 innings. However, his injury in September raised concerns. Although he avoided the injured list, his absence from the mound since then has fans curious about his readiness. Reports indicate he threw around 30 pitches in a recent bullpen session, but the question remains: will he be at 100% for the ALCS?
And here's where it gets intriguing: The Mariners and Blue Jays have until tomorrow to finalize their ALCS rosters. With the series extending to seven games, Seattle will likely add an extra pitcher, which could mean a rookie like Ben Williamson or Harry Ford makes way for Woo.
The Mariners' pitching strategy is a captivating aspect of their ALCS journey. Will Woo's addition be the missing piece to their championship puzzle? Share your thoughts on this strategic move and its potential impact on the series!
