The Seattle Times · Jul 17, 2019
Mariners pitcher Sam Tuivailala, active again, can relate to Kevin Durant’s injury
OAKLAND, Calif. — Sam Tuivailala grew up in the Bay Area, a casual Golden State Warriors fan, so he knows all about Kevin Durant’s much-discussed Achilles injury.
The Mariners’ 26-year-old right-handed reliever can relate, having spent the past 11 months recovering from a ruptured right Achilles.
Now healthy, Tuivailala was activated and available to play Tuesday when the Mariners begin a two-game set against the Oakland A’s.
When his physical therapist told him he was cleared to return to the Mariners’ active roster, Tuivailala said “it kind of felt like I got my first call-up again. I was eager and excited to get here.”