The Seattle Mariners have cranked their bullpen merry-go-round once more. This time, they’ve selected a local product to cycle into the rotation, selecting RHP Michael Rucker from Triple-A Tacoma and designating RHP Domingo González for assignment one day after recalling him. Rucker is a 32 year old hurler who starred at Auburn Riverside High School, class of 2012. Rucker attended Gonzaga University out of high school, pitching well for the Bellingham Bells for two summers before transferring to Brigham
Young University for two more strong seasons. Selected in the 11th round by the Chicago Cubs in the 2016 draft, Rucker debuted in 2021 with the Cubbies. He’s since bounced around, working in a bullpen role for a 4.96/4.51 ERA/FIP in 123 innings across 96 games. Injuries waylaid his 2025, but he’s been solid with the Rainiers. His 1.93/3.95 ERA/FIP in 22 games is impressive in the Pacific Coast League, but he’ll be expected most likely to cover some innings in the next day or two for a short-handed M’s pitching staff.
González had about as rough of a call-up as Nick Davila’s had a dreamy one. He may well be claimed in spite of his implosion Wednesday, but otherwise he’ll return to Triple-A Tacoma having been cleared off the 40-man roster to make space for Rucker.
