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Luis Castillo, Emerson Hancock in Danger of Moving to Bullpen?
With Seattle Mariners right-hander Bryce Miller (oblique) on the verge of being reinstated from the 15-day injured list to make his 2026 season debut at some point next week, one of right-handers Luis Castillo or Emerson Hancock, could be in danger of being bumped from the starting rotation to the bullpen, according to Adam Jude of The Seattle Times. The Mariners could also elect to go with a six-man rotation for the time being. Jude writes that one thing is certain: Hancock has cemented a place on the major-league roster. He's been one of the best starters in the American League so far this year, posting a team-best 2.59 ERA and 46:6 K:BB in 41 2/3 innings pitched. Another possibility is that Castillo is paired with Miller in a piggyback role. The 33-year-old Castillo is most in danger of a demotion to a relief role after starting 2026 0-3 with an ugly 6.29 ERA in seven starts. It's easier said than done, though, as he's never pitched out of the bullpen and is a respected leader in the clubhouse. Castillo is also still owed $24 million next year with a vesting option for the 2028 season.
Source: The Seattle Times - Adam Jude
Source: The Seattle Times - Adam Jude
