Mariners lose Luis Castillo to the 15-day Injured List

The Mariners will now be without Luis Castillo for at least two weeks, which puts a new strain on their attempts to qualify for the playoffs.

The Seattle Mariners’ fears have come true, in respect of the injury Luis Castillo suffered during Sunday’s game in St. Louis. It was confirmed on Tuesday, that he is headed to the 15-day Injured List with a Grade 2 hamstring strain.

Mariners general manager Justin Hollander tried to sound as positive as possible, when discussing Castillo’s recovery. He said:

“In talking with the trainers, they think it’s not out of the question that he could be ready by the time the 15 days are up. He’s a fast healer, he felt stronger and better already today.”

At the same time, Hollander did also admit the three-time All-Star could be ready in 15 days, or it might take longer. Regardless, this is a significant blow for the Mariners and their hopes of qualifying for the playoffs.

A major loss for the top rotation in the Majors

The rotation is undoubtedly the number one reason why the Mariners are still in with a shout of the postseason. And by number one we mean literally – their starters are collectively ranked first in the Majors in ERA, WHIP and opposing team batting average.

If we go on the 15-day absence as a timeline and take into account the Mariners’ schedule, it’s feasible they might only need to use Castillo’s replacement twice. However, they will see how things play out in the coming days.

In that respect, Castillo’s replacement is expected to be Emerson Hancock, who at least has experience with nine Major League starts this season, albeit with mixed results. He has produced a 3-4 record, four quality starts, a 4.76 ERA, 5.43 FIP and 1.324 WHIP.

• Sounders FC Inducts Kasey Keller, Sigi Schmid, and Jimmy Gabriel into Legends Circle
• Mariners place J.P. Crawford on IL with right hand contusion
• WNBA Game Recap: Storm Struggles Against Lynx
• Mariners avoid another injury issue after J.P. Crawford hit by pitch
• Mariners Home Run Derby to feature Ichiro and Mike Cameron

First injury since joining the Mariners

The Mariners have been extremely fortunate with Castillo, ever since acquiring him in a trade two years ago from the Cincinnati Reds. This will be the first time he has had to be placed on the Injured List during his time in Seattle.

Admittedly the 31-year-old hasn’t been as dominant as usual this season, but he’s still better than the majority of Major League starters. In 30 starts he has a 11-12 record, 3.64 ERA, 3.93 FIP and 1.169 WHIP.

Mariners manager Dan Wilson knows Castillo is a big loss. Speaking to the media, he said:

“Luis has certainly lived up to his name ‘The Rock.’ He’s been a rock in our pitching staff all season long, and it is tough. But I know him well and understand that he will be back just as soon as he can, and he will put in the work to come back.”

No matter how quickly Castillo recovers however, the reality is the Mariners will have to do without him for at least 15 days. The fans will of course be hopeful the playoffs are still a possibility, if he is able to come back as soon as this time period is up.

Other Mariners roster moves

Seby Zavala, catcher, selected from Triple-A Tacoma.

Yimi García, pitcher, transferred to 60-day Injured List with right elbow inflammation.

How much faith do you have in Hancock filling in for Castillo, however long he’s out for? What does it mean to you for the Mariners’ playoff hopes? Let us know in the comments section below.