Mariners Get Former 1st Round Pick Back After A Year's Absence

For the first time in almost exactly a year, the Seattle Mariners had their first-round pick (11th overall) from the 2016 draft in the starting lineup. 26-year-old outfielder Kyle Lewis had spent the last calendar year recovering from first a meniscus tear in his knee, and then bone bruises during his rehab, further delaying his return.

Finally, he's back. And he drilled two hits in his first game, as the Mariners DH.

Kyle Lewis singles into left field for his first big league hit since May 31 of last year. pic.twitter.com/rJ965YyNw6
— Daniel Kramer (@DKramer_) May 25, 2022

Lewis spoke about how grateful he is to be back in a Mariners uniform. "Definitely a lot of emotions... Dealing with the rehab process, countless hours, trying to problem solve... Being up here today... every moment is special."

Manager Scott Servais says Lewis won't be playing the outfield anytime soon, so he'll continue to get his reps in at DH. Perhaps 4-5 times a week. “He gives you good at-bat and he’s got all kinds of power,” Servais said. “The big thing is to keep him healthy. If he stays healthy and we keep him in the lineup, we’ll get positive production from him. That’s what we’re looking for. That’s what he’s looking for.”

Photo Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports