Mariners Pitcher Bryce Miller Progresses in Injury Rehab

Cautious return from left oblique injury delays start to Mariners' season

Mar. 18, 2026 at 3:51am

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Seattle Mariners pitcher Bryce Miller is carefully working his way back from a left oblique injury that will keep him out of the starting rotation to begin the season. While he recently reached 91 mph in a bullpen session, the team is taking a measured approach to ensure Miller's full recovery before returning to game action.

Why it matters

The Mariners have depth in their pitching staff, allowing them to be cautious with Miller's recovery and not rush him back too soon, which could risk re-injury. Emerson Hancock and Cooper Criswell are potential candidates to fill in while Miller works his way back.

The details

Miller experienced discomfort during a bullpen session earlier this month, forcing him to cut the workout short. This setback means he will start the season on the injured list. In his recent bullpen session, Miller threw around 30 pitches, finishing with lighter 4-ounce baseballs to maintain arm speed without overstressing the oblique. He is aiming for a 'max-effort' bullpen session within a week, hoping to avoid any further discomfort.

  • Earlier this month, Miller experienced discomfort during a bullpen session, forcing him to cut the workout short.
  • In his recent bullpen session, Miller threw approximately 30 pitches.

The players

Bryce Miller

A pitcher for the Seattle Mariners who is recovering from a left oblique injury.

Emerson Hancock

A Mariners pitcher who is a potential candidate to start in Miller's absence.

Cooper Criswell

A Mariners pitcher who is a potential candidate to start in Miller's absence.

Dan Wilson

The manager of the Seattle Mariners.

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What they’re saying

“We kind of talked in there, I told them I want to be able to have like a max-effort bullpen where I'm ripping everything and not feel anything before I see hitters.”

— Bryce Miller

What’s next

The most optimistic scenario suggests Miller could face hitters toward the end of next week, around the time of the season opener against the Guardians. However, building up his pitch count to game-ready levels will take additional time.

The takeaway

The Mariners are taking a cautious approach with Miller's recovery, benefiting from the depth in their pitching staff to allow him the time needed to fully heal and avoid any further setbacks. This measured approach should help ensure Miller's long-term health and success once he returns to the mound.