Mariners: Injury updates including Haggerty and Moore

A look at the latest Seattle Mariners injury news for Dylan Moore, Taylor Trammell, Sam Haggerty, Andres Munoz and Tommy La Stella.

The regular season is around the metaphorical corner, with just over three weeks until the Mariners host the Guardians on opening day. Hopes are high, and with good reason.

As always, durability and availability will play a big part in how the 2023 campaign plays out for the M’s. In this respect, here is a look at the latest injury news surrounding the roster:

Dylan Moore

Dylan Moore underwent offseason core muscle surgery and recently resumed light running. He is scheduled to take live at-bats within the next two/three weeks, but you have to wonder if he will be ready for opening day.

Moore recently agreed terms on a three-year deal, to give you some idea of what he means to the Mariners. His 104 regular season appearances last year saw him play every position except catcher and pitcher.

The expectation is that the 30-year-old will mostly provide depth at second base and shortstop in 2023. Another of his invaluable traits is the ability to steal bases, with his 54 stolen bases since 2020 representing the sixth-most in the American League.

Taylor Trammell

It is easy to feel bad for Taylor Trammell, who suffered a hamate broken bone in his right hand in a workout prior to spring training and underwent surgery. Injuries compromised him last year and, combined with struggling to find offense, he only appeared in 43 regular season games.

There was reason for Taylor to be excited this year, with him set to be part of a platoon situation in the left outfield. Unfortunately, being hit on his hand by a pitch has contributed to yet another setback for him.

As thing stand, the 25-year-old is expected to return at some point during April. However, it should also be noted that players who undergo the same surgery generally take a while to get their power back.

Versatility the theme for Mariners

Sam Haggerty

Sam Haggerty took some time off last week, before returning on Monday versus the Cubs, playing third base and seeing two at-bats. However, his left groin strain remains a challenge.

Haggerty has been dealing with his groin injury since towards the end of last season. However, while he should be available for opening day, he must continue being careful and managing the strain.

The 28-year-old is receiving regular treatment and is still compromised, specifically with his speed. He enjoyed a breakout campaign in Seattle last year and will again be an important part of the roster, especially with his versatility.

Andres Munoz

Andres Munoz underwent offseason right foot surgery and is still recovering, but is projected to be ready for opening day. He threw a live batting practice session on Monday, which is encouraging news.

Pending how his foot has responded, Munoz will next pitch in spring training action. The Mariners have advised he remains ahead of schedule in his recovery from surgery.

The 24-year-old was excellent for the M’s last season, with a 2.49 ERA, 0.892 WHIP and 13.3 strikeouts per nine innings in 64 appearances. The fact he achieved this while pitching through his foot issue is even more impressive and he is set to excel as the long-term closer.

Tommy La Stella

Signed in January as an experienced and versatile depth option, Tommy La Stella has yet to appear in spring training action. He is currently dealing with a sore right shoulder and is still not throwing balls.

There is concern for some in respect of La Stella’s durability, after only playing 60 games last year. He subsequently underwent offseason surgery on both of his Achilles and was released by the Giants.

In fairness though, the 34-year-old is a low-cost risk, with the Giants paying all but the major-league minimum portion of his original three-year contract. He is a candidate to see time as designated hitter, along with second and third base, and should be available before opening day.

Which are the five injured players do you consider as the most important to the Seattle Mariners and why? Let us know in the comments section below.