The Seattle Mariners dominated the White Sox with a 14-1 victory on Saturday, but their celebration was overshadowed by a worrisome incident involving outfielder Victor Robles. During the top of the fifth inning, Robles was struck on the right hand by an 87.2 mph slider from reliever Gus Varland, forcing him to exit the game.
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Robles was visibly in pain, shaking his hand while heading down the third-base line before being evaluated by head athletic trainer Kyle Torgerson. Shortly after, he left for the clubhouse and did not return to the game. The Mariners later announced that Robles would undergo an X-ray, with further tests possible based on the results.
After the game, manager Dan Wilson provided a cautiously optimistic update.
“They’re going to have it checked out today,” Wilson said. “Hopefully, he’s all right. He was frustrated, as anyone would be, but we’re just hoping for the best.”
Mariners get are hopeful Victor Robles is going to be fine
Victor Robles’ recent injury is particularly troubling due to its timing—just days before Opening Day—and his history with similar injuries. The 27-year-old outfielder was hit by 11 pitches last season, with 10 occurring after he joined Seattle in June. Several of these incidents involved his hand or wrist, causing him to miss time, though he never required a stint on the injured list.MLB.com+1RotoWire+1
Despite these setbacks, Robles became one of the Mariners’ most valuable players in 2024. After being released by the Nationals, he signed with Seattle and quickly secured an everyday role, leading to a two-year, $9.75 million extension in mid-August.
In 77 games with the Mariners, Robles posted a .328/.393/.467 slash line, with four home runs and 30 stolen bases, contributing 3.1 WAR, according to FanGraphs.
This spring, Robles has maintained his strong performance, entering Saturday’s game with an .836 OPS and three home runs in 53 at-bats. His energy and production have been notable during camp. “He brings a lot of life to this ballclub,” manager Dan Wilson said earlier on Saturday, prior to the injury scare.
With Opening Day scheduled for Thursday against the Oakland A’s, the Mariners and their fans are anxiously awaiting Robles’ test results. He is projected to start in right field and bat leadoff, forming a dynamic outfield trio with Julio Rodríguez and Randy Arozarena. Seattle concludes Cactus League play with games on Sunday and Monday before heading north. Logan Gilbert is expected to start the opener, but the primary focus is on Robles’ health and his availability for the start of the season.
