MLB Baseball 3 Days

Last updated: April 5, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

MLB Injury Report: Weekend Setbacks Mount

A rash of injuries plagued several major market clubs over the weekend, forcing key players from contests and leading to immediate IL placements. The Dodgers lost superstar Mookie Betts due to right lower back pain after just the top of the first inning in Saturday’s game against Washington, indicating early season concerns for Los Angeles who are focusing on October. Similarly, the Mets confirmed Juan Soto has a right calf strain following an MRI; Soto departed Friday’s opener in the first inning, exhibiting tightness that has now sidelined the slugger. Adding to the offensive woes, Brewers right fielder Sal Frelick departed Saturday's doubleheader game with left side tightness, forcing Milwaukee into immediate lineup adjustments.

Further injury news involved several starters exiting due to incidental contact or pre-existing issues. Yankees catcher Alejandro Kirk required X-rays on his thumb after being struck by a foul tip in the 10th inning Friday, a contest where Aaron Judge’s home run set the tone for a decisive 8-2 victory over Miami. On the pitching side, Tigers veteran Justin Verlander landed on the 15-day IL with hip inflammation, postponing his highly anticipated season home debut. Meanwhile, Twins All-Star Byron Buxton exited Friday's 10-4 home opener against the Rays nursing a right forearm contusion, and Cubs pitcher Cade Horton also headed to the IL after departing early against Cleveland with right forearm discomfort.

The severity of injuries was particularly damaging for two young position players. Diamondbacks outfielder Jordan Lawlar suffered a fractured right wrist Friday after being hit by a pitch versus the Braves, immediately landing him on the injured list. In a strange turn of events, plate umpire Ron Kulpa left Saturday’s Marlins-Yankees game in the fourth inning after taking a foul ball directly off his mask, necessitating a replacement official.

Prospects & Milestones Across the League

Despite the injury woes, several teams celebrated positive debuts and organizational milestones. Pittsburgh shortstop Konnor Griffin dazzled in his Pirates debut, driving in a critical run with an RBI double as the Pirates edged the Orioles 5-4 in their PNC Park opener. In Los Angeles, Shohei Ohtani broke through his early plate slump, launching a three-run homer in the third inning against the Nationals for his first RBIs of the season, signaling a potential turnaround for the designated hitter.

Organizational stability and future planning were evident in the minors and front offices. White Sox General Manager Chris Getz stated the club will not rush its top pitching prospects to the majors, prioritizing development despite early rotation struggles. Conversely, Brewers prospect Cooper Pratt suggested that signing a big contract while in the minors should alleviate performance pressure as he targets the big leagues. In Chicago, the White Sox announced plans to retire former shortstop and manager Ozzie Guillén's No. 13 jersey during an August ceremony.

Roster Moves & Unique Storylines

Roster shuffling continued as clubs dealt with immediate absences and eccentric pre-game situations. With starter Michael Wacha sidelined due to illness, the Royals were forced to recall right-hander Luinder Avila from Triple-A Omaha to take the mound against the Brewers. Off the field, the Brewers have adopted a "rally tortoise" mascot after manager Pat Murphy's pocket pancakes were banned by a local reporter, adding an unusual element to their clubhouse dynamic. Meanwhile, Mariners shortstop J.P. Crawford was reinstated from the 10-day IL on Thursday, having recovered from a right shoulder issue that began the season. In a highly unusual incident, Royals catcher Carter Jensen was scratched from Thursday’s lineup after overslept and missing his call time.

Finally, former Cy Young winner Trevor Bauer is preparing for his return to affiliated baseball in the United States, having signed with the Long Island Ducks of the independent Atlantic League, scheduled to pitch on opening night, April 21.