Mariners Activate Logan Gilbert After Rehab, Add Zach Pop to Bullpen

The Seattle Mariners are poised to activate right-handed starter Logan Gilbert, who has been sidelined since April 26 with a flexor strain in his pitching elbow. Gilbert completed successful rehab outings in Triple-A Tacoma, including a six-scoreless-inning start, and threw a bullpen session indicating readiness to return to the major league rotation as early as next week. To make room for Gilbert, the Mariners optioned rookie starter Logan Evans back to Triple-A and selected reliever Zach Pop to bolster their bullpen amid ongoing injury challenges. Gilbert was an effective performer before his injury, posting a 2.37 ERA with 44 strikeouts in 30.1 innings this season, and his return is expected to strengthen a pitching staff that has struggled overall. The Mariners, currently tied for second in the AL West and fighting for a playoff spot, hope Gilbert's return, along with added bullpen depth, can help reverse a recent slump. General Manager Justin Hollander expressed optimism about Gilbert's health and performance, highlighting the importance of his comeback in the team's playoff push.