MLB Injury Bug Bites Verlander, Gray, Giolito
MLB Injury Woes: Verlander, Gray, Giolito Sidelined
The MLB season is approaching, but three prominent right-handed starting pitchers are facing injuries that could delay their starts.
Houston Astros ace Justin Verlander will begin the season on the injured list due to inflammation in his pitching shoulder. St. Louis Cardinals’ Sonny Gray has a hamstring strain, while Boston Red Sox’s Lucas Giolito is experiencing discomfort in his pitching elbow.
Verlander’s injury is considered a setback rather than a long-term concern. The 41-year-old is expected to throw in the bullpen again on Friday but has yet to face hitters. However, a delay to the start of the season could jeopardize his $35 million option for 2025.
Giolito’s injury is more concerning. The 29-year-old will undergo additional exams to determine the severity of the issue. He had a disappointing 2023 season, allowing a league-high 41 home runs and posting a 4.88 ERA.
Gray may have the best chance of returning for opening day, which he was scheduled to start against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 28. The Cardinals are hopeful that the mild strain will allow him to recover in time.
Meanwhile, Atlanta Braves’ Ronald Acuña Jr. is expected to be ready for opening day after a thorough examination of his sore right knee revealed no serious issues.
New York Yankees catcher Jose Trevino is also nearing a return from a calf injury. The 31-year-old is recovering from a wrist injury that limited him to 55 games last season.