Mariners News: Garver Back, Arroyo’s Position Flexibility, and Miller’s Health Update
The Seattle Mariners are gearing up for the 2026 season with some key developments in their roster. After a slow offseason, veteran catcher Mitch Garver has re-signed with the team on a minor league deal, a move facilitated by a call from fellow catcher Cal Raleigh. This provides much-needed depth behind the plate, especially considering Raleigh’s increasing time at designated hitter.
Garver’s Return to Seattle
Following the Mariners’ decision to decline their mutual option with Garver last fall, he found himself in a challenging free agency period. As Garver explained to the Seattle Times’ Adam Jude, offers were scarce. However, a simple phone call from Cal Raleigh changed everything. “Cal reached out and said, ‘Maybe you should try calling the Mariners.’ So we called Justin [Hollander, the Mariners’ GM]. Within 24 hours, we were able to work something out.”
While Andrew Knizner was signed to a one-year deal, Garver’s return offers the Mariners valuable insurance and a proven bat. The team anticipates continuing to utilize Raleigh at DH to keep his power in the lineup while managing his workload behind the plate, creating ample opportunities for both catchers.
Michael Arroyo’s Expanding Role
Infield prospect Michael Arroyo is poised to showcase his versatility this spring. He’ll be getting looks at both third base and left field, positions he hasn’t regularly played professionally. Arroyo previously saw limited action at third base in the Mariners’ Dominican Summer League in 2022, but has primarily been a middle infielder. This move reflects the Mariners’ desire to increase Arroyo’s value and potentially expedite his path to the majors.
Ranked among the top minor league prospects by Baseball Prospectus (36th), The Athletic’s Keith Law (49th), ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel (62nd), and MLB Pipeline (67th), Arroyo is considered a potential big league second baseman. However, with Brendan Donovan already acquired and other infield prospects in the system, expanding his defensive capabilities makes strategic sense.
Bryce Miller’s Recovery and Preparation
Pitcher Bryce Miller is reporting to camp in good health after a 2025 season hampered by elbow issues. Rather than undergo surgery for bone spurs, Miller received cortisone and PRP injections, allowing him to finish the season strong with a 2.51 ERA over three starts during the postseason. He also received a Synvisc injection to aid in recovery.
Miller is already throwing up to 98 mph in live batting practice and has added 15 pounds of muscle during the offseason. After a breakout 2024 season, the Mariners are hoping he can return to form and build on his previous success. As Miller stated, his doctor advised a conservative approach: “Don’t touch it [Miller’s elbow]. If it feels good, don’t touch it.”
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