Mariners’ pitcher Matt Brash, who performed remarkably well in the American League last year, had Tommy John surgery this week, confirmed Seattle GM Justin Hollander on Friday. This means Brash will be out for the entire 2024 season.
Brash had been dealing with elbow discomfort since spring training and attempted rehab before opting for surgery. The decision was made after consulting with Dr. Keith Meister, who diagnosed a partial tear in the posterior area of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), a tough spot to heal without surgery.
Hollander expressed disappointment for Brash and the team, noting his popularity among teammates and staff. Brash is expected to return late next spring or early summer, with a brace inserted to aid his recovery.
This is a different procedure from the internal brace surgery some pitchers undergo for elbow issues.
Brash was a standout last season, leading all of baseball with 78 appearances and boasting a 9-4 record with a 3.04 ERA. His slider, known for its effectiveness, contributed to his success, making him a challenging opponent for batters.
Originally a starter, Brash transitioned to the bullpen after joining Seattle in 2022. With 117 games under his belt over the past two seasons, he’s become a key player for the Mariners. Unfortunately, he’s now among several players dealing with elbow problems, including Strider, Bieber, Loáisiga, Pérez, and Gott.
Seattle manager Scott Servais praised Brash’s slider as one of the league’s best, emphasizing its impact on the team’s bullpen strategy. Losing such a valuable asset poses challenges for the Mariners as they plan their game strategies.
