Mariners Move to Freshen Bullpen: Rucker Called Up, González Designated

The Seattle Mariners made a roster move ahead of their next game, selecting the contract of right-handed reliever Michael Rucker while designating Domingo González for assignment. The decision came after a taxing bullpen performance in the previous night’s 7-2 loss to the Baltimore Orioles.

Seattle’s relief corps was already stretched thin, with a six-man starting rotation forcing the club to operate with a seven-man bullpen. Right-handers Andrés Muñoz, Jose A. Ferrer, Eduard Bazardo, and Gabe Speier each pitched two of the past three days, while Alex Hoppe and Nick Davila both threw on Tuesday. With fresh arms in high demand, the Mariners opted to bring in Rucker as a replacement.

González, 26, was the odd man out. The right-hander entered the game in the sixth inning of the Orioles contest and allowed four earned runs across two innings. He had already surrendered four runs in his five appearances for the M’s this season, all of which came in that single outing. Acquired off waivers from the Atlanta Braves last year, González has spent time shuttling between Triple-A and the majors. His 3.62 ERA across 107 innings in Triple-A this season includes a 24.7% strikeout rate and 10.2% walk rate.

Now designated for assignment, González will enter the waiver process. The Mariners have up to five days to explore trade interest or place him on waivers. His optionability makes him a potential target for a team in need of minor league depth.

Rucker, 32, returns to the major leagues for the first time since 2023. The right-hander spent the 2024 season with the Philadelphia Phillies but did not pitch at the big league level. He was later waived, claimed by the Washington Nationals, and eventually outrighted before electing free agency. Rucker signed a minor league deal with the Mariners in 2026 and has been dominant with Triple-A Tacoma. Over 22 appearances, he has thrown 22 2/3 innings with a 1.59 ERA and 87.1% strand rate. His 24.5% strikeout rate and 47.5% ground ball rate are solid, though his 10.8% walk rate remains a concern.

The move gives the Mariners a fresh arm to face the Orioles in the series continuation. With the waiver process set to begin, the next few days will determine González’s next destination and whether Rucker can continue his strong Triple-A form in the majors.