Initial imaging showed Boston Red Sox starter Lucas Giolito likely has a partially torn UCL and flexor strain and could miss the 2024 season. Giolito, who signed a two-year deal with Boston, may need surgery to repair the right-elbow damage.
The right-hander was set to be a RDBL Free Agent target in Auction, carrying a 357.0 point projection which likely would have generated a double-digit contract which is another knock to the Starting Pitcher Free Agent Class.
Around the RDBL
The St. Louis Cardinals are relieved that Sonny Gray's mild right hamstring strain wasn't worse, but Gray's availability for Opening Day is in doubt. John Mozeliak described the timeline as "challenging” but "from the MRI reading, we are definitely encouraged." It’s another blow to a reworked St. Joseph Jokers starting rotation with Kodai Senga (shoulder) also expected to start 2024 on the Injured List as he recovers from a PRP injection. Free Agent right-hander Kevin Gausman did not throw his scheduled live bullpen session Monday due to "general shoulder fatigue," Keegan Matheson of MLB.com reports. The good news here is that Gausman's MRI showed no structural damage. However, the fact an MRI was ordered shows there is some level of concern. Gausman has yet to pitch in a game this spring, and since he did not fully bounce back after his last side session, his availability for Opening Day could be in jeopardy. A better picture of his timetable should come into focus in the days to come.
While it’s not injury-related, Burlingame Blue Ducks right-hander Paul Skenes (Minors) has been told that he will start 2024 in the Minor Leagues according to Pirates GM Ben Cherington.
Marlins manager Skip Schumaker said Tuesday that Braxton Garrett (shoulder) will likely begin the season on the injured list, Jordan McPherson of the Miami Herald reports. Schumaker noted that Garrett "feels great" as he works his way back from some early-camp left shoulder soreness, but the team does not think it's a good idea to push him to be ready in time for Opening Day. The southpaw has been throwing bullpen sessions and a live batting practice session appears imminent. Garrett remains in play as a returnee for the Spokane Fightin' Fish rotation.
Free Agent right-hander Justin Verlander (shoulder) is set to begin 2024 on the Injured List as he builds back up. According to Astros Manager Joe Espada, "He's doing well, but we're running out of days and won't be able to build him up to start the regular season."
The Lunatic Fringe received positive news on Ronald Acuna (knee) as he was seen by Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles last night. They confirmed irritation in the meniscus of his right knee but Acuña Jr. is set to gradually increase baseball activities and is expected to be ready for Opening Day.
Sticking with the Fringe, Kyle Bradish (elbow) played catch from 140 feet Tuesday, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports. Bradish noted afterward that his right elbow still feels good and also added that 140 feet is about the maximum distance from which he usually plays catch. That could indicate he'll be cleared to throw from a mound soon, although it has not yet been revealed when that will happen. Bradish is working his way back from a partial UCL tear in his pitching elbow and will begin the season on the injured list, but he remains hopeful of avoiding surgery, though his spot on the Fringe Keeper Roster is in limbo.
Injuries continue to limit talented Asti Grape Stompers right-hander Shane Baz. Already slowed with his return from Tommy John surgery, Baz tweaked his oblique while picking up a weight this week. His throwing program will be delayed by an additional week, further clouding his planned return to the mound. Baz still holds a season of control through 2025, but hasn't thrown a big league pitch since 2022.
Derek Shelton also says that Maulers reliever David Bednar is dealing with right lat tightness. He and the team are playing it safe and he’s currently not throwing.