Mariners Make Roster Move Before Royals Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Segun Ajayi | Last updated May 22, 2026 4:59 PM ET

The Mariners needed another fit outfielder after dealing with injuries during the first part of the season.

The Seattle Mariners have made a roster move before their game against Kansas City on Friday. Outfielder Victor Robles has been reinstated from the 10-day injured list after recovering from a right pectoral strain. The Mariners have also optioned Connor Joe to Triple-A Tacoma to make room for Robles on the active roster.

The 29-year-old played only five games before the injury forced him out of action earlier this season. Robles is expected to return to a regular role quickly because of the energy and athleticism he brings to the roster.

He can play multiple outfield positions and help the Mariners both offensively and defensively. The move also comes at a key point in the season as Seattle continues fighting for position in the American League standings.

Roster Moves:

Victor Robles, OF, reinstated from 10-day Injured List (right pec strain, retroactive to April 7).
Connor Joe, INF/OF, optioned to Triple-A Tacoma.https://t.co/mqPYATQrWp pic.twitter.com/Zf8n3t1cW3
— Mariners PR (@MarinersPR) May 22, 2026

Robles started the season with limited playing time before suffering a left shoulder dislocation while making a leaping catch into the netting on April 6. The Dominican outfielder appeared in 12 games with Triple-A Tacoma during his rehab assignment, where he batted .256 with 10 runs, four doubles, seven RBI, nine walks and two stolen bases.

While Julio Rodríguez continues to lead the group in center field, Robles is another reliable option for manager Dan Wilson during the upcoming busy stretch of games.

Connor Joe filled a depth role while Robles recovered. The 33-year-old hit .182 with two runs scored, two doubles, one home run, three RBI, two stolen bases and six walks in 18 games with the Mariners after he was selected from Triple-A Tacoma on April 8.

In nine games with Tacoma this season, he is batting .235 with four doubles, one home run, four RBI and three walks. He has now been optioned to Triple-A Tacoma, with the Mariners preferring more speed and range in the lineup.

Seattle Mariners outfielder Victor Robles (10)© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Robles gives Seattle another right-handed hitter against left-handed pitching. The 29-year-old helped the Nationals win the 2019 World Series earlier in his career. However, injuries and inconsistent hitting have hampered his progress, but Seattle still believes he can become an important contributor.

At 29 years old, Robles still gives Seattle long-term upside, so the move is important beyond just this weekend’s series against Kansas City. If he stays healthy for the rest of the season, he could lock down a steady role in the outfield and help the Mariners compete for a playoff spot.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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