I think they'll definitely keep him stretched out. From their perspective, if Ryu or Kikuchi go down, who do you want starting in their place?
Pearson or Stripling/Kay/Hatch?
I would think they'd prefer Pearson, if he's still with the team.
Off-topic, but I've really liked what I've seen of Greg Bird in the 1st couple games. He's had really good swing decisions and a great eye. Any chance he could make the team? We do need someone to cover 1B any time Vlad needs a day off or DHs. And, as discussed previously, Bird did have a ton of potential at one point before injuries derailed him.