As Major League Baseball’s Wild Card Series open across the American and National Leagues, postseason rosters face a wave of uncertainty as eight teams manage key injuries to star players.
Alex Bregman Cleared to Hit Following Facial Fractures
Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman enters the postseason following a freak injury sustained on Sept. 20, when a foul ball off the bat of teammate Michael Busch struck him in the face while he stood in the on-deck circle. Bregman dealt with multiple facial fractures and noticeable swelling.
However, he erased any doubts regarding his vision during Game 162 by going 4-for-4 with two home runs in just his second game back in the lineup. The remaining question for Chicago heading into the Wild Card round is whether Bregman will return to defensive duties or serve strictly as the designated hitter.
Jesús Luzardo Set to Open Game 1 for Philadelphia
Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Jesús Luzardo has recovered from left shoulder inflammation that sidelined him since Sept. 7. Luzardo returned to the mound to toss a clean eighth inning of relief during the team’s regular-season finale.
Having posted a National League-best 1.80 ERA in the second half of the campaign, Luzardo is scheduled to take the ball for Game 1 against Atlanta on Tuesday.
Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Ceddanne Rafaela Rejoin Lineups
New York Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. returned from a right thumb sprain last Tuesday, immediately reclaiming his spot in the infield. Chisholm went 2-for-10 with two RBIs and two walks across three games as he looks to build on a second-half .739 OPS.
In Boston, outfielder Ceddanne Rafaela bounced back from a right quadriceps strain that cost him three weeks. Though he experienced a minor hamstring cramp scare during his first game back last Wednesday, Rafaela returned to the starting lineup on Thursday, going 2-for-6 with a walk over three contests while immediately showing off his range in center field.
Relievers Ranger Suárez and Jason Adam Under Scrutiny
Philadelphia reliever Ranger Suárez missed three months due to right elbow discomfort. His two tune-up appearances since returning saw him yield a single run in one inning of work in each outing, with his velocity dipping slightly in his second appearance.
Similarly, San Diego Padres reliever Jason Adam returned from a three-month absence due to a right shoulder strain. Adam logged two innings, allowing one run and two walks while generating three swinging strikes with his changeup. Both pitchers enter high-pressure postseason roles under watchful eyes.
Aaron Judge and Garrett Crochet Face Rushed Timelines
New York Yankees star Aaron Judge has not played since Sept. 16 due to a right calf strain. The three-time MVP participated in indoor batting practice on Sunday and aims to play this week, though his return relies on an expedited rehab program.
Meanwhile, Boston Red Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet has been sidelined since late April with a left shoulder injury. Having thrown live batting practice twice over the past week, Crochet traveled with the club to New York and is expected to operate out of the bullpen if activated for the series.
Luis Arraez Ruled Out for Wild Card Series
Miami Marlins infielder Luis Arraez sustained a left ankle sprain during a game last Thursday. Manager Don Mattingly stated that the MRI results were not favorable. Although Arraez was a hypothetical option to pinch-hit on Sunday, he did not take an at-bat following the injury, and Mattingly confirmed Monday that Arraez will not be included on the Wild Card roster.
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