“Mariners vs. CLE: Game 4 Preview and Analysis for March 29, 2026”
The Seattle Mariners aim to rebound after a one-run defeat last night. They try to avoid dropping their first series of the season in Game 4 against Cleveland on March 29, 2026.
Seattle’s pitching call
Emerson Hancock will make his first start of the season for Seattle. Hancock returns to the rotation after losing a rotation spot last year.
Bryce Miller had been the likely option. He is still being stretched out after missing time in Spring Training with oblique tightness. Logan Evans, who took a rotation spot last season, is out for the year following Tommy John surgery.
What to watch from Hancock
- Hancock is making a season debut, not a midweek bullpen appearance.
- He re-enters the rotation because of Evans’ injury.
- Miller’s limited workload keeps Hancock in the spot for now.
Cleveland starter and scouting notes
The Guardians will hand the ball to right-hander Slade Cecconi. He was a key piece in the deal that sent Josh Naylor to Arizona.
Cecconi relies heavily on off-speed pitches. Mariners hitters must be patient and look for his fastball.
Injuries, roster moves and updates
Shortstop J.P. Crawford remains with the major league club while recovering from a shoulder issue. Tacoma has an off day, which makes a rehab assignment there likely this week.
Reliever Carlos Vargas was in the building while he works back from a lat strain. The team has not provided a timetable for his return.
Front office news: the Guardians traded outfielder Johnathan Rodriguez to the Baltimore Orioles. In return, Cleveland acquired minor league right-hander Carter Rustad.
General manager Justin Hollander is expected to give his weekly update tomorrow.
Broadcast and game information
Television coverage is on NBC Peacock. The Peacock broadcast team includes Jason Benetti, Rick Manning, and Filmogaz.com’s Ryan Rowland-Smith.
Radio coverage airs on 710 AM Seattle Sports. The radio booth features Rick Rizzs and Gary Hill.
Looking ahead
After this series, the Mariners open a three-game set against the New York Yankees. The club has a promotional night Monday featuring a Hello Kitty squish pillow.
Fans must purchase a special ticket to receive the Hello Kitty promotion.
Context for fans and bettors
- This matchup is Game 4 of the early-season series.
- Mariners vs. CLE dynamics favor patient hitting against Cecconi’s off-speed arsenal.
- Seattle needs a strong Hancock outing to stay competitive in the series.