Three prominent right-handed starting pitchers are facing injuries that may impact the start of the upcoming regular season. Justin Verlander of the Houston Astros, Sonny Gray of the St. Louis Cardinals, and Lucas Giolito of the Boston Red Sox are all dealing with various ailments.
Verlander will begin the season on the injured list due to inflammation in his pitching shoulder. Gray suffered a hamstring strain during a recent game, while Giolito reported discomfort in his pitching elbow following a rough outing.
Verlander, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, is expected to throw in the bullpen soon but may face a delayed start to the season. Giolito's injury severity is yet to be determined, raising concerns about his long-term availability.
Gray, who signed a significant contract with the Cardinals, aims to return for opening day despite his hamstring strain. The team is hopeful that his injury is mild and he can recover in time.
Additionally, left-handed pitcher Braxton Garrett of the Miami Marlins is also facing challenges due to shoulder discomfort, potentially affecting his readiness for the season.
On a positive note, AL Championship Series MVP Adolis García is set to make his spring training debut with the Texas Rangers. Meanwhile, the Rangers are monitoring the progress of All-Star third baseman Josh Jung and World Series MVP Corey Seager, who is recovering from surgery.
In other news, Pittsburgh Pirates' top pitching prospect Paul Skenes will start the season in the minors to further develop his skills. The Atlanta Braves received good news as National League MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. is expected to be ready for opening day after a knee examination revealed no serious issues.
Yankees catcher Jose Trevino is nearing a return to games after recovering from a calf injury and a wrist tear that sidelined him for a significant part of the previous season.
