The American League playoffs are heating up, and the AL West race took a significant turn on Friday night.
Seattle Mariners’ pitcher Brian Woo is scheduled for an MRI on Saturday after their 4-0 win against the Astros, as mentioned by manager Dan Wilson.
The Mariners currently sit one game ahead of the Astros in the division, and they’re tied with the second-seeded Tigers, which comes with a playoff bye.
“Of course, I’m worried about a few things, but I think Brian is pretty resilient. It was smart of him to tell us. There’s no need to push through it, considering the uncertainties we’re facing,” Wilson remarked.
Woo has been one of the top starters in the league. After five shutout innings on Friday, his record improved to 15-7, and his ERA dropped to 2.94.
Seattle’s postseason aspirations heavily depend on him performing at his peak. If this injury forces him to sit out, it could be a substantial setback.
Wilson noted that Woo felt something unusual between the fifth and sixth innings but believed he could continue.
Woo went back for a warm-up pitch, but something seemed off. Viewers noticed as a trainer stepped onto the field right after his throw.
He gave up one hit and one walk while striking out seven against Houston’s Hunter Brown.
“It was just that last thing I noticed,” Woo remarked. “I thought it was best not to push it.”
Eduardo Bazardo stepped in for Woo during the second half of the game, pitching two scoreless innings. The Mariners need one more win to secure the season tiebreaker against the Astros in this series.
Woo added, “I didn’t think it was right for the team to push through. Buzz felt good to go. I’ll know more on Saturday. Really, I’m just uncertain.”
Seattle is striving for a return to the playoffs for the first time in 24 years, counting on their strong pitching staff, with Woo likely starting Game 1 if healthy.
If he ends up on the injured list, it could limit his availability for the playoffs.
They play their final two games in Houston before concluding the season at home against the competitive Rockies and Dodgers.
