Spring Training Injury Trouble for Major League Baseball

As Major League Baseball (MLB) embarks on its spring training season, the excitement is palpable. However, alongside the anticipation, injuries are rearing their ugly heads, raising concerns across the league. Teams like the New York Mets, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Baltimore Orioles are already facing significant setbacks, with broken hamate injuries afflicting key players. With both Cactus and Grapefruit League games ahead, it’s crucial to illuminate the biggest injury concerns for all 30 teams this spring.

American League Overview

In the American League, injury woes are particularly prominent in the East division, where teams are monitoring the health of pivotal players.

Baltimore Orioles: Jackson Holliday

In a recent turn of events, Baltimore’s prized prospect, Jackson Holliday, sustained a broken hamate bone in his right hand during a cage session. Holliday is scheduled for surgery to remove the injured bone and is expected to miss several weeks following Opening Day. Despite not yet living up to his full potential, Holliday is still an asset for the Orioles’ lineup. With limited options available for second base, his absence will be keenly felt.

Boston Red Sox: Triston Casas

Boston's slugging first baseman, Triston Casas, is recovering from a ruptured left patellar tendon he suffered last May. Although cleared for outdoor activities, his progress remains uncertain. The Red Sox front office’s lack of power additions over the winter places extra pressure on him to return successfully.

New York Yankees: Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón

The Yankees are anxiously awaiting updates on their star pitchers, Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón, both of whom are recovering from elbow surgeries. Currently, indications suggest they could participate in Grapefruit League games, but their long-term effectiveness remains under scrutiny.

Tampa Bay Rays: Shane McClanahan

Shane McClanahan is another pitcher working back from Tommy John surgery, having not pitched since August 2023. While reports indicate he is now healthy, the Rays cannot afford to take any chances, particularly after a challenging 2025 season.

Toronto Blue Jays: Shane Bieber

Shane Bieber, coming off a Tommy John surgery, is facing forearm fatigue early in the spring. Although not a major concern yet, it’s a situation that could escalate given his injury history.

Central Division Challenges

As the spring training proceeds, teams in the American League Central also have critical injuries on their radar.

Chicago White Sox: Munetaka Murakami

Munetaka Murakami joins the White Sox after a difficult season in Japan, limited by injuries. His performance and durability will be essential for Chicago's success in 2026.

Cleveland Guardians: Chase DeLauter

Chase DeLauter, slated as the Guardians’ starting center fielder, has had numerous injury setbacks but is expected to secure his spot in the lineup once he’s fully healthy.

Detroit Tigers: Dillon Dingler

Gold Glove-winning catcher Dillon Dingler is still limited after surgery on his elbow. While he could potentially return by Opening Day, his current restrictions complicate the situation for the Tigers.

Kansas City Royals: Cole Ragans

Royals pitcher Cole Ragans comes with concerns as he missed most of last season due to injuries. His health will be pivotal in whether Kansas City can maintain a competitive edge.

Minnesota Twins: Byron Buxton

Byron Buxton's performance last season was commendable, but at 32, his injury-plagued history still raises alarms. His participation in the World Baseball Classic adds another layer of risk to his availability.

National League Injury Reports

Around the National League, teams from both East and West divisions are facing their own tribulations due to injuries this spring.

Atlanta Braves: Spencer Schwellenbach

The Braves will be without Schwellenbach for the start of the season due to elbow surgery. His absence adds pressure on the organization's pitching depth.

New York Mets: Francisco Lindor

The Mets are holding their breath over All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor, who recently underwent surgery for a broken hamate bone in his left hand. His power production will be crucial for the Mets' lineup as they approach Opening Day.

Arizona Diamondbacks: Corbin Carroll

Corbin Carroll is another player dealing with a hamate injury, as he recently underwent surgery on his right hand. While this injury impacts his hitting, his speed may remain intact as he recovers.

Conclusion

As MLB teams navigate the complex landscape of injuries during spring training, the stakes are incredibly high. These early concerns could shape the trajectory of each team's season before it even begins. With crucial players sidelined or battling back from injuries, all eyes will be watching how these situations unfold as teams prepare for the long season ahead. Consistent player health and performance will be vital in determining the success of each franchise in 2026.