Mariners’ Bryan Woo Exits After Throwing Warmup Pitches vs Astros

The Seattle Mariners’ 4-0 win over the Houston Astros on Friday night should’ve been all about their dominance on the mound. It also marked a big leap into first place in the AL West.

But the spotlight shifted when starting pitcher Bryan Woo left early with pectoral tightness. In a game with playoff vibes, Woo’s exit left fans and the team uneasy, even as Seattle celebrated a crucial win.

Bryan Woo’s Sudden Exit Raises Concerns

Woo started feeling discomfort as he warmed up for the sixth inning. He signaled to the dugout, and trainers and coaches rushed to the mound, pulling him from the game.

Interim manager Dan Wilson said Woo had already mentioned the issue earlier in the game. That heads-up let reliever Eduard Bazardo get ready in advance.

A Pitcher’s Decision to Protect His Season

After the game, Woo said he first noticed the tightness late in the fifth inning. He tried to push through but decided it was smarter to step aside before things got worse.

“You have to think long term,” Woo said, clearly keeping the postseason in mind. Wilson expects Woo to get an MRI on Saturday to figure out how serious the injury is.

Woo’s Dominance Before the Injury

Before leaving, Woo looked locked in against Houston’s stacked lineup. He pitched five strong innings, giving up just one hit — a fourth-inning double by Carlos Correa — walked one, and struck out seven.

His performance fit right in with the consistent year he’s had so far.

Key 2024 Season Stats for Bryan Woo

• Record: 15-7
• ERA: 2.94
• Strikeouts: 198
• WHIP: Among league leaders, showing just how efficient he’s been

Friday’s win put the Mariners alone at the top of the AL West. In a division this tight, every win — especially against Houston — feels massive.

Mariners’ Postseason Push Intensifies

Woo’s injury scare comes at a brutal time. Only a few weeks remain in the regular season, and Seattle’s locked in a fierce division race.

Friday’s win gave them a one-game edge over Houston. It also sent a message that Seattle can shut down even the best offenses.

A Crucial Series Against a Familiar Foe

The rivalry between Seattle and Houston has turned into one of the American League’s best. This series could shape the playoff picture, and Woo’s early exit just adds more questions about the Mariners’ rotation.

Fans will be glued to updates on his MRI, wondering if he’ll be back for the final stretch.

Impact on the Mariners’ Rotation

If Woo can’t go, Seattle will have to lean even harder on its bullpen and pitching depth. Bazardo stepped up on Friday, showing the team was ready, but replacing Woo’s impact won’t be easy.

The Mariners have counted on their pitching depth all year, and this might be their toughest test yet.

Balancing Risk and Reward

For Woo, leaving the game probably stung in the moment. But honestly, protecting his health has to come first.

The Mariners can’t afford to lose him for the postseason. Pushing through an injury could end up costing way more than just one game.

Now that the Mariners sit atop the AL West, it feels like every game carries October-level pressure. Friday’s win might end up being huge in the standings.

But really, the big question is how soon Bryan Woo can get back on the mound — healthy and ready — for the games that count most.

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