Logan Gilbert returns from injury to start for the Mariners vs. the Red Sox on June 16, 2025, after a 6-0 win powered by Crawford's slam & Hancock's gem.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
What a difference a day makes. The vibes are immaculate in Seattle after the Mariners capped their series against Cleveland with a resounding 6-0 victory on Sunday. But the good news didn't stop there. As T-Mobile Park buzzes with momentum, the biggest reinforcement of all is set to take the mound tonight: Logan Gilbert is back.
Seven scoreless innings on just two hits. That's the masterpiece Emerson Hancock painted on Sunday, a performance that has the entire league taking notice of Seattle's pitching depth.
Sunday's matinee was a perfect display of Mariners baseball. The offense, which has been searching for a signature blow, got one in the form of a J.P. Crawford grand slam that sent the ballpark into a frenzy. But the real story was the man on the mound. Emerson Hancock was simply untouchable, carving up the Guardians for seven scoreless innings while allowing just two measly hits. The bullpen came in and finished the job, securing a shutout that gives the M's a full head of steam as they welcome Boston to town.
It's the news every Mariners fan has been waiting for. After being sidelined since April 26 with a right elbow flexor strain, Logan Gilbert will be activated from the IL to start Monday's game against the Red Sox. 'The Sheriff' looked sharp in three rehab starts and a bullpen session last Friday, signaling he's ready to rejoin what is already one of baseball's most dominant rotations. His return isn't just a feel-good story; it's a move that solidifies the Mariners' pitching staff as arguably the best in the American League.
While Gilbert's return is a huge plus, the M's are still being patient with their other key players. Right-hander Bryce Miller remains on the IL with right elbow inflammation and recently received a PRP injection to help heal a bone spur. The good news is that surgery is off the table, and the team expects him back after the All-Star break. On the offensive side, 1B/OF Luke Raley has begun his rehab assignment with the Tacoma Rainiers. After starting on June 12, he's slated for a few more games and could be back in the big-league lineup as early as this weekend, providing another much-needed bat.
The pitching pipeline continues to impress. Down on the farm, prospect Teddy McGraw turned heads in his latest outing, racking up four strikeouts. It's performances like these that show the organization's commitment to developing arms, ensuring that the current big-league dominance is built to last.
With a statement win in their back pocket and their ace returning to the hill, the Mariners are perfectly positioned to make some noise against the Red Sox. Tonight is more than just another game; it's a chance to prove that this team, powered by its incredible pitching, is a true contender. All eyes will be on Logan Gilbert as he retakes the mound at T-Mobile Park. Welcome back, Sheriff.
