While many MLB injuries are pretty minor, there are some that are very serious. In the postseason, the Dodgers’ Craig Kimbrel is still out, and the Yankees have placed DJ LeMahieu and Scott Effross on the injured list. The injury list for Sunday’s game featured some interesting names. A player who was hit by a pitch in the postseason, the Astros’ Phil Maton, was also listed.
Injuries in baseball are part of the game, and they impact the game more than in most other sports. Injury reports for MLB games list each player on the injured list, detailing the specific injury, expected game availability, and time out. The report also includes notes about the injury. Players’ statuses can change, so it’s important to read the report thoroughly.
Injuries are often the result of repeated overuse. Overuse injuries are common and are a contributing factor in many baseball injuries. The repetitive stress from throwing is one of the primary culprits. Injury rates are up across the entire MLB, but some positions invite more risk than others. Let’s examine some of these injuries and how they are treated.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have been hit hardest by injuries this season. They currently have 14 players on the injured list. However, some players are making progress. Cody Bellinger and Zach McKinstry have both completed rehab assignments. In addition, Tony Gonsolin and Brusdar Graterol have begun throwing in Oklahoma City. Meanwhile, Jimmy Nelson is expected to return soon. After missing one game last week, he has made progress in his rehab assignment.
Major League Baseball is a major business, and every day, it costs the league millions of dollars to repair and replace injured players. Therefore, it’s important for MLB to learn as much as possible about the causes of baseball injuries and create injury prevention programs. Recently, researchers at the Mayo Clinic have published a study on MLB injuries.
Last year, the San Diego Padres lost 17 players to injuries. While Aaron Judge played 102 games, he missed 18 games last season because of a Grade 1 calf strain. The Yankees also suffered several pitching injuries. Luis Severino was on the injured list before the season began and Dellin Betances has had shoulder issues.
The Seattle Mariners have also dealt with a series of injuries. Right fielder Kevin Kiermaier has spent a lot of time on the injured list. He also suffered neck and upper back pain. He will likely miss the entire postseason. The Mariners aren’t done with injuries though.
