11
Mariners Host Twins in Critical Game 113: Full Preview & Discussion
Seattle Mariners Game Day Update: Goodbyes, Trade Rumors, and Roster Moves
Saying Goodbye to "La Piedra"
Today is a special (and kinda sad) day at T-Mobile Park. The Mariners are saying farewell to Luis Castillo, whose nickname is "La Piedra" (that means "The Rock" in Spanish).
Why is this a big deal?
Castillo has been one of the team’s best pitchers. The writer says they’ll never forget his very first home start at this stadium. It was that memorable!
George Kirby Takes the Mound — Maybe for the Last Time?
This afternoon’s starting pitcher is George Kirby. But there’s a twist: this might be his final game wearing a Mariners uniform.
What’s going on?
- Trade rumors are swirling — The Mariners are reportedly "listening to trade offers" for Kirby
- His last outing was rough — On Monday, the Texas Rangers hit four home runs off him
- That game tied for the third-worst performance of his entire career
Fingers crossed he bounces back today!
New Faces on the Roster
The Mariners made several roster moves today. Here’s the simple breakdown:
1. Josh Simpson Called Up
- Who: Left-handed pitcher (LHP)
- Why: Temporarily takes Luis Castillo’s spot on the roster
- Status: Here right now
2. Two More Players Arriving Tuesday
After the team’s day off Monday, these guys are expected to join:
- Seranthony Dominguez — Pitcher
- Brendan Donovan — Infielder
Other Moves You Should Know
Buddy Kennedy Finds a New Home
| What Happened | Details |
|---|---|
| Designated for Assignment (DFA’d) | July 28 — Mariners removed him from the 40-man roster |
| Claimed off Waivers | San Francisco Giants picked him up |
| Fun Fact | The Giants were the team the Mariners originally got him from! |
Twins Make a Swap Too
- Sent down: RHP Jack Anderson (not the former Mariners prospect with the same name!) → Triple-A
- Called up: RHP Dean Kremer — their new acquisition
A Heartwarming Moment: Michael Arroyo
Michael Arroyo was at the ballpark earlier, and reporters got excited — but it wasn’t for a call-up!
Here’s the real story:
- He got hit by a pitch recently while playing in Tacoma (Mariners’ Triple-A team)
- Came to Seattle to get checked out by doctors
- Randy Arozarena (Mariners outfielder) gave him a big box of gear: extra shin guards, cleats, and other "swag"
- He’s back in Tacoma’s lineup today for their 1:30 PM game
Nice teammate moment!
Today’s Game Information
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| First Pitch | 1:10 PM PDT |
| TV | Mariners TV |
| Radio | Old Reliable (710 ESPN Seattle) |
Important Points to Remember
- Luis Castillo ("La Piedra") is being honored today — likely his last home start
- George Kirby starts amid trade speculation — could be his final Mariners game
- Josh Simpson is up temporarily to fill Castillo’s roster spot
- Dominguez & Donovan arrive Tuesday after the off-day
- Buddy Kennedy returns to the Giants (his original team)
- Michael Arroyo is okay — just a medical check + free gear from Arozarena!
Summary
Today’s game is emotional and eventful. The Mariners are:
- Celebrating Luis Castillo’s time in Seattle
- Watching George Kirby pitch with his future uncertain
- Shuffling the roster with new pitchers and infielders
- Seeing kindness between teammates (Arozarena → Arroyo)
- Playing the Twins, who also made a roster move
All at 1:10 PM on Mariners TV or Old Reliable radio!
FAQ
1. What does "DFA’d" mean?
Designated for Assignment. It means the team removes a player from their 40-man roster. They have 7 days to trade him, release him, or send him to the minors (if he clears waivers).
2. What are "waivers"?
A process where other teams can claim a player’s contract. The Giants "claimed Buddy Kennedy off waivers" means they took on his contract and added him to their team.
3. Why is George Kirby being traded?
The Mariners are reportedly "listening to offers" — which means they’re open to trading him if another team gives them a good enough return (prospects, players, etc.). It doesn’t mean he’s definitely gone.
4. What’s the difference between the Mariners and Tacoma?
Tacoma Rainiers = Seattle’s Triple-A minor league team (one step below the majors). Players move back and forth between them.
5. Who is "Old Reliable"?
That’s the nickname for 710 ESPN Seattle, the Mariners’ longtime radio broadcast partner.
