Mariners discontinue Gilbert-Hancock piggyback start arrangement

The Seattle Mariners have decided not to proceed with Logan Gilbert and Emerson Hancock's piggyback starting arrangement during their current schedule. Manager Dan Wilson initially announced this approach to manage the pitching staff ahead of the All-Star break, but it has been placed on hold. The team has a tight schedule of 12 games in 13 days, complicating the strategy. Gilbert has shown strong performance this season, with a 1.35 ERA, but will not partner with Hancock for this outing. Instead, George Kirby and Bryan Woo may step into the rotation, although their availability is yet to be confirmed. Wilson plans to revisit the piggyback strategy in the future when circumstances allow.

• 2:00 AMYahoo Sports — Mariners scrap Logan Gilbert-Emerson Hancock piggyback start