The Final Stretch: Injury List on the Brink
The MLB injury list is nearly exhausted, leaving just six weeks of regular‑season play before the postseason picture solidifies. With roster spots at a premium, every available player becomes a strategic asset for both real‑world clubs and fantasy managers.
Konnor Griffin of the Pirates and Roman Anthony of the Red Sox are slated to rejoin their respective clubs in late August or early September after lengthy rehab assignments. Griffin’s eligibility opens on September 4, giving the Pirates a timely boost as they chase a wild‑card spot.
Juan Soto of the Mets is nursing a strained calf but remains committed to returning before the season ends. His presence in the lineup could provide a potent mix of power and on‑base skill for a team battling for a playoff berth.
Cody Bellinger of the Yankees is set to begin a rehab stint later this week and may be activated for the start of next week. The move comes as the Yankees evaluate his readiness after a prolonged absence.
Aaron Judge of the Yankees carries a stress fracture in his rib, with a mid‑September return representing the most optimistic scenario. The team is monitoring his healing progress closely, aware that a timely comeback could be decisive in their division race.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Blue Jays has been dealing with a concussion but is already participating in activities, suggesting a quick return and minimal disruption to the club’s offensive plans.
Daniel Palencia of the Cubs was shifted to the 60‑day IL but is deep into rehab and could be activated by August 28, potentially adding a reliable arm to the Cubs’ rotation as they push for a postseason spot.
Spencer Schwellenbach of the Braves faces a fractured elbow with limited time remaining in the season, casting doubt on his ability to contribute before the playoffs.
Giancarlo Stanton of the Yankees has a strained calf and is trending toward a return before the end of August, which would restore a powerful bat to the middle of the lineup.
Fantasy managers are advised to prioritize players like Griffin over those who appear finished for the season, such as Davis Martin, because a timely activation could swing matchups in their favor.
Other athletes with uncertain timelines include Tyler Soderstrom and Spencer Steer, both sidelined by hip impingement and a sprained wrist respectively, as well as Devin Williams of the Mets, whose mild shoulder strain carries no urgency to return.
Cooper Pratt of the Brewers is slated for a rehab assignment on Tuesday, accelerating his schedule ahead of earlier expectations, while Tyler Glasnow of the Dodgers will need just one more rehab start before he is cleared to rejoin the rotation.
Spencer Strider of the Braves has resumed throwing but has seen his locker cleared, raising questions about his availability despite the positive progress in his recovery.
Nick Kurtz and Shea Langeliers of the Athletics are both recovering from torn meniscus injuries, which typically require lengthy rehabilitation periods before full competition resumes.
Joe Musgrove of the Rangers has undergone Tommy John surgery and is expected to resume throwing soon, with a potential major‑league return on the horizon as he works his way back to full health.