Seattle Mariners pitcher Matt Brash began spring training in 2026 facing more challenges than he expected. Despite his pitching showing promise, Brash was sidelined for several days due to complications from a cracked molar, which required extraction and a follow-up procedure. This interruption delayed his preparations but did not deter his recovery efforts as he now feels stronger than ever since his Tommy John surgery in May 2024. The experience left him in considerable discomfort, temporarily limiting his ability to eat or practice.
Dental Recovery Causes Unexpected Delay but Progress Returns
Following the tooth extraction, Brash suffered from extra bleeding and a swollen face, visibly struggling with the recovery. For a few days, he was restricted to a smoothie-only diet while his face remained swollen. By Tuesday, Brash returned to throwing bullpen sessions, reporting the best performance he’s had since undergoing surgery two years ago. His velocity during this bullpen outing reached between 95 and 96 mph with a smooth delivery that felt natural to him.
“It was definitely a tough couple of days,”
Brash said Wednesday.
“I feel really good right now,”
he added.
“Even though all last year my arm felt fine, your body still feels a little different. You aren’t moving the same. Maybe I was trying a little too hard to throw hard. Yesterday, it was 95-96 (mph) nice and easy. I felt like my normal self, really smooth.”
The unique sensation of the arm feeling different is typical for pitchers returning post-Tommy John surgery. Brash’s experience aligns with the usual timeline where a full offseason is necessary to regain complete comfort and rhythm with pitching mechanics.
Careful Ramp-Up Strategy for a Controlled Return
Brash’s cautious return is part of a deliberate plan designed by pitching strategist Trent Blank, aimed at preventing him from overexerting too soon during spring camp. Rather than chasing velocity, he was encouraged to focus on feeling out his arm and gradually introducing secondary pitches. This approach contrasts with Brash’s experience last year when his tension and eagerness to regain speed affected his mechanics.
“I feel like I was a little tense,”
Brash reflected.
“I was trying hard to get my velo back and that’s not me. I’m like loose until my foot lands and it’s go-time to release the ball. I feel that’s where my velo comes from. That’s where I feel best moving down the mound. So I just want to be loose.”
During the offseason, Brash worked on subtle adjustments to maintain a smooth delivery and reduce tension, a method supporting the progressive build-up that he hopes will carry him through the full 2026 season.
Decision Against World Baseball Classic Participation
Brash had initially aimed to pitch for Team Canada in the upcoming World Baseball Classic as he did in 2023. However, ongoing inflammation and his recovery progress prompted him to prioritize a healthy MLB season over international competition. After stopping throwing for several days due to the inflammation, Brash communicated to his national team that he would withdraw.
“The season is more important in the grand scheme of things just to come back healthy for the Mariners,”
he said.
“Obviously it was not a decision I wanted to make. It’s tough, I wanted to play for my country. In the grand scheme of things it was important to take my time, be cautionary and just kind of get ready for the season.”
Spring Training Bolstered by New Talent in Mariners Bullpen
With his surgical recovery behind him, Brash is optimistic about the Mariners’ pitching staff this season, especially following the addition of left-hander Jose Ferrer to the bullpen. He expressed confidence that the team’s relievers, including Andrés Muñoz and Gabe Speier, will perform strongly in late-game situations.
“Ferrer has amazing stuff,” Brash said.
“I’m just excited. I feel like I’m going to be fully healthy, have my A-1 stuff back. Then obviously Muni (Andrés Muñoz) and Gabe (Speier) are going to do their thing. I feel like if we have the lead going late in the game, we should be very confident in all of our abilities to get the job done.”
Additional Spring Training Developments With Mariners’ Roster
The Mariners played an 8-8 tie against the Kansas City Royals in Surprise, Arizona, with several notable moments. Andrés Muñoz stood out by striking out Royals’ Bobby Witt Jr. on a 100 mph fastball. Rob Refsnyder contributed by going 2-for-2 and driving in a run with a double. Pitcher Bryan Woo made his first 2026 spring appearance, pitching two innings with a limited pitch count, allowing one run on two hits while striking out two.
“First time at full, full game speed, honestly just trying to fill up the zone and throw everything and get on the same page with the catchers who are new,”
Woo commented after the game.
“I think that can be the trap in spring training, whether you are developing new pitches or working on something new, sometimes you have a trap to kind of take those things into a game,”
he explained.
“For me, I try to take games more as you worked on what you worked on during the week, just go compete now. Having the headspace to kind of differentiate between the two I think is kind of a tough thing, but I think it is important if you want to get the most out of your work.”
J.P. Crawford’s Shoulder Concerns and Upcoming Schedule
Shortstop J.P. Crawford is managing minor shoulder issues similar to previous spring training ailments. Although he has not yet appeared in a Cactus League game, he’s been participating in limited field and batting cage activities. Mariners manager Dan Wilson expressed minimal concern, hopeful that Crawford will be ready to play by next week.
The Mariners are scheduled to face the Cleveland Guardians on Thursday, with Bryce Miller slated to make his first spring start. Fans can listen live on the Mariners Radio Network via the Seattle Sports app starting at noon.
Looking Ahead for Matt Brash and the Mariners
Matt Brash’s recovery trajectory this spring signals a positive turnaround for the Mariners’ pitching depth, especially as he gains confidence post-Tommy John surgery. His cautious but steady approach to ramping up velocity and refining his delivery suggests he will be ready for consistent contributions as the 2026 season unfolds. Meanwhile, additions like Jose Ferrer and the steady performances from bullpen members Andrés Muñoz and Gabe Speier bolster the Mariners’ late-inning pitching prospects.
The team’s handling of J.P. Crawford’s shoulder and the development of young pitchers such as Bryan Woo further illustrate the Mariners’ focus on balancing player health and competitive readiness. As spring training progresses, attention will shift toward how these components come together to form the Mariners’ roster and pitching strategy for the upcoming MLB campaign.
Good to see Brash throwing again after being down a few days following dental work. pic.twitter.com/tWGFPCMJcc
— Shannon Drayer (@shannondrayer) February 24, 2026
