MLB Injury Report: Buxton’s All-Star Hopes Dimmed, Early Sidelined with Elbow Inflammation

Key Major League Baseball players are facing significant injury concerns as the All-Star break looms, potentially altering team dynamics and individual player availability for the midsummer classic. Byron Buxton’s status for the All-Star Game is now in jeopardy after aggravating a lingering hip injury, while rookie Connelly Early’s promising season has been halted by elbow inflammation.

Buxton’s Hip Agravation

Byron Buxton was sidelined for the entire last week with a right hip impingement. He returned to the lineup on Saturday but was forced out of Sunday’s game against the Yankees after sliding into second base in the first inning. It appears the play may have aggravated his existing hip issue. Given his previous absences due to the injury, there is a possibility he could be placed on the injured list, especially with the All-Star break offering a potential period for rest and recovery. An update on his condition is expected before the Minnesota Twins’ series opener against the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday. Buxton, who was elected to his first All-Star team, has posted a .271 batting average with 25 home runs, 57 runs scored, 45 RBIs, and seven stolen bases across 335 plate appearances this season.

Early’s Breakout Halted by Elbow Injury

Connelly Early’s impressive rookie campaign has encountered a significant obstacle with a left elbow injury. He departed his start last Tuesday against the Washington Nationals after 61 pitches and was subsequently placed on the 15-day injured list for further evaluation. Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy indicated that Early is dealing with posterior left elbow inflammation and is seeking a second opinion from a specialist. While Tracy downplayed the need for a second visit, the development is concerning. An update on Early’s status and potential return timeline is anticipated in the coming days.

Trout Nearing Return

In more positive news, Mike Trout is nearing a return to the Los Angeles Angels lineup after a three-week absence due to a right hamstring strain. Trout, who has been sidelined since June 18, reportedly ran the bases without issue prior to Sunday’s game against the Boston Red Sox and is expected to be activated this week, likely on Tuesday or Wednesday. The veteran outfielder, voted as an American League starter for the All-Star Game, is trending towards participating in his 11th Midsummer Classic.

Other Notable Injuries and Updates

Several other players are navigating injury concerns:

Helsley experienced right elbow discomfort during warmups before a scheduled appearance last Wednesday, leading to his placement back on the 15-day injured list. He had previously missed six weeks with right elbow inflammation.

Diaz appears to be on track for a return shortly after the All-Star break, showing encouraging signs in a recent live bullpen session, including effective fastball usage. He is expected to reclaim closing duties for the Dodgers.

Pasquantino is set to begin a minor league rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha on Tuesday after recovering from a broken hamate bone in his right hand. He has been sidelined since mid-June and could potentially return before the All-Star break.

Woodruff aggravated his shoulder injury during his third start back from the injured list on Saturday, with his velocity dipping significantly. He has been placed back on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation, and a similar recovery timeline could see him return in mid-to-late August.

Suarez was removed from Sunday’s game with left adductor tightness after attempting to field a ground ball. If placed on the injured list before Tuesday’s game, he may only miss one start due to the upcoming All-Star break.

Pena is slated to begin a minor league rehab assignment with Triple-A Sugar Land on Tuesday for a left calf strain. He is eligible for return on Friday and should be ready to rejoin the Astros if he has no setbacks in his rehab games.

Donovan, sidelined since mid-May with a groin strain, has been cleared to begin his minor league rehab assignment on Tuesday. His return could create lineup decisions for the Seattle Mariners, given the strong play of other infielders.

Fried is close to making a minor league rehab start after a recent bullpen session. The left-hander has been on the injured list since May 14 with a bone bruise in his left elbow and is expected back with the Yankees rotation shortly after the All-Star break.

Key facts
| Player | Injury | Status |
|—|—|—|
| Byron Buxton | Right hip impingement | Aggravated, status for All-Star Game uncertain |
| Connelly Early | Left elbow inflammation | Placed on 15-day IL, seeking second opinion |
| Mike Trout | Right hamstring strain | Nearing return, expected this week |

These injury updates are crucial for fantasy baseball managers and team front offices as they strategize for the latter half of the season and consider playoff implications. The health of key players can significantly influence team performance and championship aspirations.

Source: Yahoo Sports – https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/mlb-injury-report-connelly-early-044318191.html

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