This week’s MLB injury report brings significant updates for several teams, particularly the Boston Red Sox and Washington Nationals. The Red Sox will be without first baseman Willson Contreras, who has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a left hamstring strain. Meanwhile, the Nationals are hopeful for the return of outfielder James Wood, who could rejoin the lineup as early as Tuesday.
Contreras, who was removed from Sunday’s game against the New York Yankees due to hamstring tightness, has been dealing with this issue for approximately a month. The 34-year-old has struggled at the plate throughout August, posting a batting average of just .217. His absence will be felt as the Red Sox look to maintain their competitive edge in the American League. In his place, Mickey Gasper has been recalled to fill the first base position.
On a more positive note for the Nationals, James Wood, a promising 23-year-old outfielder, is nearing a return after suffering a left oblique strain that has kept him sidelined since August 4. Wood participated in a rehab game with Double-A Harrisburg, where he hit a home run and played seven innings. Nationals manager Blake Butera mentioned that Wood would take Monday off before making a decision on his activation, indicating that he is close to being ready for the major league action.
In addition to Contreras and Wood, the New York Yankees are also anticipating the return of star outfielder Aaron Judge. Manager Aaron Boone stated that Judge could be back in the lineup during the team's upcoming homestand, which begins on September 8 against the Colorado Rockies. Judge has been recovering from a rib fracture sustained in early June and, despite the lengthy absence, he might skip a minor league rehab assignment altogether.
Other notable injury updates include Konnor Griffin of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who is expected to return from the injured list for the series opener against the Los Angeles Angels. Griffin has been out since early July due to a torn ligament in his left ring finger but has started a minor league rehab assignment.
The St. Louis Cardinals are facing challenges as both of their starting middle infielders are dealing with injuries. Masyn Winn has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a thumb fracture, while JJ Wetherholt is sidelined with right wrist tendinitis. Winn's injury is particularly concerning as he has been a key player for the Cardinals this season.
In Miami, Xavier Edwards has been diagnosed with a left thumb sprain after a collision in a game against the Nationals. His injury could impact the Marlins' playoff aspirations as they continue to fight for a postseason spot. Meanwhile, Emerson Hancock of the Seattle Mariners is also on the injured list with a left adductor strain, which he sustained while making a diving play. Hancock has had a breakout season, boasting a 3.57 ERA and 126 strikeouts over 138 2/3 innings.
Finally, the Minnesota Twins are monitoring the health of Byron Buxton and Joe Ryan. Buxton is on the 10-day injured list with a right hip impingement, and there are concerns he may require offseason surgery. Ryan, on the other hand, is making strides toward returning after a glute strain and is set to make a rehab start soon.
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