Injury Report 3/18: Spring Training Update

Andrew Heaney — Left Elbow Inflammation

 

Andrew Heaney has returned to throwing following a brief shutdown because of left elbow inflammation. Heaney had an MRI, which did not indicate structural damage to his elbow. Heaney dealt with similar inflammation last spring, which held him out until mid-April 2018. Heaney returned and wasn’t really effective until the end of April, but he was able to stay healthy from that point on and finished the year with 180 innings pitched. While there’s no guarantee that we’ll see a repeat, Heaney experienced elbow inflammation earlier this spring compared with 2018 and has returned to throwing sooner than he did last year. Heaney will likely be on the IL to begin 2019, but he may provide value once he is able to return.

Estimated return: Mid-to-late April.

 

Tyler Skaggs — Left Forearm Fatigue

 

Tyler Skaggs dealt with an acute bout of left forearm fatigue this past week. As per reports, Skaggs was tinkering with a new pitch, causing discomfort in his forearm. He has since shelved the pitch and has been able to throw a bullpen session and a minor league outing without consequence. Skaggs is set to toe the rubber on Wednesday. If no concerns arise from that outing, Skaggs should be able to begin 2019 in the rotation.

Estimated return: Ready for Opening Day.

 

Joey Gallo — Right Groin Strain

 

Joey Gallo has been diagnosed with a mild right groin strain, likely Grade 1, and will be out of action for a majority of this week. The Rangers expect Gallo to be ready for Opening Day — which is within the realm of possibility but not necessarily the likely outcome. We will have a better sense of Gallo’s return based on his progress this week, but I wouldn’t be shocked if he missed a couple games to begin the season.

Estimated return: Ready for Opening Day or shortly thereafter.

 

Yohander Mendez — Left Elbow Tightness

 

Yohander Mendez has been shut down because of left elbow tightness. Mendez left his Sunday (March 17) start prematurely and will be further evaluated on Monday. His estimated return can vary wildly at this point, though the Rangers are likely to be cautious with their often-injured pitching prospect.

Estimated return: Mid-May.

 

Matt Carpenter — Back Tightness

 

Matt Carpenter was scratched from Sunday’s starting lineup because of back tightness. Carpenter has a history of back-related injuries, though they have typically not resulted in DL stints or extended absences. Manager Mike Shildt has stated that this is not a serious injury. It is unclear when the Cardinals expect Carpenter to return to action. Overall, this feels minor and not something that should have a major effect on Carpenter’s 2019 season.

Estimated return: Ready for Opening Day or shortly thereafter.