Seattle Mariners Call Up Heritage Grad Cole Wilcox

Wilcox replaces injured reliever Carlos Vargas on Mariners roster

Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:34am

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The Seattle Mariners have placed right-handed pitcher Carlos Vargas on the 15-day injured list with a right lat strain and have recalled right-handed pitcher Cole Wilcox from Triple-A Tacoma. Wilcox, a graduate of Heritage High School, made his MLB debut with the Tampa Bay Rays last season.

Why it matters

The Mariners are looking to build on a promising 2025 season and will need to rely on their bullpen depth, especially with the loss of Vargas, a key reliever. Wilcox's call-up represents an opportunity for the young pitcher to make an impact at the major league level.

The details

Vargas, 26, did not appear in Thursday's game against the Cleveland Guardians. Manager Dan Wilson said Vargas felt something off with his lat and informed the team. Wilcox, 26, was acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays in November and made his MLB debut last season, giving up three earned runs in one inning of work. In spring training with the Mariners, Wilcox posted a 4.32 ERA across 8 1/3 innings with 11 strikeouts and four walks.

  • Vargas was placed on the 15-day injured list on Friday, March 28, 2026.
  • Wilcox was recalled from Triple-A Tacoma on Friday, March 28, 2026.

The players

Carlos Vargas

A 26-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Seattle Mariners who was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right lat strain.

Cole Wilcox

A 26-year-old right-handed pitcher who was called up from Triple-A Tacoma to replace the injured Vargas on the Mariners' roster. Wilcox is a graduate of Heritage High School.

Dan Wilson

The manager of the Seattle Mariners.

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What they’re saying

“We don't really know too much more about it for a couple of days as we're assessing it. But, obviously tough. Injuries are always tough. And so, we'll just hope for the best.”

— Dan Wilson, Manager, Seattle Mariners

“It's like, 'OK, just going out ready to compete now' instead of trying to get everything under your belt. It's there, so now you just worry about trying to get outs.”

— Cole Wilcox

What’s next

The Mariners will continue to monitor Vargas' injury and determine a timeline for his return. Wilcox will look to make the most of his opportunity to contribute at the major league level.

The takeaway

The Mariners' bullpen depth will be tested with the loss of Vargas, but the call-up of Cole Wilcox represents a chance for the young pitcher to showcase his talents and potentially earn a more permanent role on the major league roster.