Robles returns to Mariners' lineup; Joe optioned to Triple-A

KANSAS CITY -- With the Mariners in stop-and-start mode as they approach the one-third mark in the season, they’re hopeful that the return of outfielder Victor Robles can provide a spark.

Robles, who was reinstated from the 10-day injured list on Friday, started in right field and batted eighth as Seattle opened a weekend series against the Royals at Kauffman Stadium. In a corresponding move, Connor Joe was optioned to Triple-A Tacoma.

“It’s good to get Vic back here,” manager Dan Wilson said before the series opener. “I think he’s ready to go.”

Robles was placed on the IL on April 8 (retroactive to April 7) with a right pectoral strain. He appeared in 12 rehab games for Tacoma before getting the green light to rejoin the Major League club.

Robles said through interpreter Freddy Llamos that his rehab centered around throwing rather than swinging.

“Swinging was never an issue,” Robles said. “Most of the pain was in trying to throw.”

Robles added that he gained full confidence in his ability to throw without any pain a few days ago and he now looks forward to helping the Mariners get on a roll.

“It’s just the energy that he brings,” Wilson said. “What he does in the clubhouse, it’s exciting. He gets guys going.”

Robles played in only 32 games during an injury-plagued 2025 season. Now that he’s back with the Mariners, he just wants to be able to stay on the field and help both with his bat and glove.

“It has definitely been a little frustrating,” Robles said. “You come back, think you are getting things back to normal and then another injury sets you back to where you have to start the process all over again. We just have to take it day by day.”