Mariners recall Josh Simpson, adjust pitching plans against Guardians

The Seattle Mariners have optioned RHP Alex Hoppe to Triple-A Tacoma and recalled LHP Josh Simpson ahead of their series against the Cleveland Guardians. This decision responds to the Guardians' lefty-heavy lineup and Simpson's good performance at Tacoma, where he has a 2.08 ERA in 21.2 innings. The Mariners will also not follow through with their planned piggyback start today, opting instead to give Logan Gilbert a solo start. Emerson Hancock will start on Sunday and George Kirby is slated to start Monday against the Angels. The team is considering a 'super bullpen' later in the season, utilizing both Kade Anderson and Ryan Sloan from Double-A Arkansas for multi-inning relief as they approach the trade deadline.

• 7:28 PMYahoo Sports — Mariners shuffle their bullpen pile & rotation/piggyback plans