Seattle Mariners right-hander took a significant step forward in his recovery from elbow surgery, marking an encouraging milestone in his long road back to the mound. The hard-throwing reliever, who was sidelined for the entire 2024 season, continues to show steady progress as he builds toward an eventual return to the Mariners’ bullpen.
He Throws Live Batting Practice with No Restrictions
On Sunday in Peoria, Brash threw a live batting practice session, an essential phase in his rehab process. Unlike his previous controlled session earlier in the week—where hitters were only allowed to track pitches—this time, batters were free to swing away.
After months of structured rehabilitation, progressing from flat-ground throwing to bullpen sessions and then to facing passive hitters, he finally had a chance to compete again in a game-like scenario.
“No restrictions today,” Mariners pitching coach Pete Woodworth said ahead of the session. “Go get Vic, go get Mastro.”
Matt Brashfaced Victor Robles and Miles Mastrobuoni, each getting two plate appearances. Robles wasted no time testing Brash, swinging and missing at a first-pitch slider, while Brash demonstrated the full range of his pitch arsenal—including his electric fastball and signature breaking stuff.
Brash Impresses with Stuff & Command
After stepping off the field, Robles had high praise for what he saw. “Really good,” he said, acknowledging Brash’s sharpness despite the long layoff.
Only two balls were put in play during the session, neither resulting in hits—a positive sign that Brash’s command and movement are already at a competitive level. Though he isn’t yet fully stretched out, his velocity and intensity have steadily increased throughout his rehab program.
Pitching Coach Praises Brash’s Progress
Mariners pitching coach Pete Woodworth was particularly pleased with Brash’s execution, highlighting his ability to command both his two-seam fastball and slider.
“It was a really good first outing,” Woodworth said. “These initial sessions are often a little erratic, but everything was competitive in the strike zone. He’s grown really comfortable with his two-seamer, and his slider command—usually one of the toughest pitches to locate—was spot on. It was awesome.”
What’s Next for Brash?
The Mariners remain cautious with Brash’s workload, ensuring he doesn’t rush his way back too quickly. His return date to game action remains uncertain, but Sunday’s performance was another major milestone in his recovery process.
The Mariners bullpen could certainly use a healthy Matt Brash—and if his progression continues at this pace, Seattle fans may not have to wait much longer to see him back on the mound at T-Mobile Park.
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