The article dives into a rough patch for three teams as spring training heats up. The Baltimore Orioles are wrestling with infield questions as Jordan Westburg battles both a partially torn UCL and nagging oblique soreness.
The New York Yankees are making big moves to beef up international scouting, landing a high-profile hire. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays have early camp injuries that might force them to rethink their infield plans.
It’s a stretch where teams scramble to adjust when key players drop out.
Westburg’s injury update and what it means for Baltimore
Jordan Westburg faces a partially torn UCL and lingering oblique soreness. He got a platelet-rich plasma injection for his elbow, and he’s not expected back until at least May.
This setback just adds to his long list of injuries. Since his 2023 debut, he’s missed time with a broken hand, sprained ankle, hamstring strain, and a finger sprain.
It’s been a frustrating run for a guy who’s shown real star potential when healthy. In just over 1,000 plate appearances, he’s hit about .264/.312/.456 and snagged an All-Star nod in 2024.
Before this latest injury, his 2024 numbers—.269 average, .317 OBP, .497 slugging in 101 games—hinted at the kind of impact he can have. But these constant setbacks chip away at his momentum and the team’s confidence.
Westburg has opened up about the frustration and self-doubt that come with being hurt over and over. He says he’s searching for ways to “bulletproof” his body, even if there’s no magic fix.
It’s about more than just the elbow now—it’s about keeping his career on track. The Orioles need him to anchor their infield, especially with such a young lineup.
Rehab is a mental grind, and the pressure to bounce back keeps building. When he’s healthy, he’s Baltimore’s top young hitter. But staying healthy is proving to be the hardest part.
Long-term health concerns and on-field performance
There’s no question Westburg has huge upside, but his health is unpredictable. His numbers show he could be a force in the middle of the lineup if he can just stay on the field.
The Orioles have to figure out how to keep their infield competitive without him. They also need to avoid pushing him too hard too soon once he’s cleared.
It’s a tricky balance. They want to develop him aggressively, but they can’t risk another setback. Depth is already getting tested by his absence.
Possible replacements and lineup impact
With both Westburg and Jackson Holliday out to start the season, Baltimore’s bench will be stretched. Coby Mayo could get the call at third base, while Blaze Alexander might slot in at second after his recent arrival.
Utility guys like Jeremiah Jackson and Bryan Ramos should see more time as the team patches things together. Every choice affects both offense and defense, so the Orioles will probably juggle the lineup to see who steps up.
They’ll need to find the right mix, giving chances to players who can help at the plate and in the field. It’s going to be a bit of a puzzle until Westburg is back.
Yankees’ push to bolster international scouting
The New York Yankees just brought in longtime Cubs executive Nao Masamoto to ramp up their international scouting. Masamoto’s experience with NPB recruitment could help the Yankees tap into Japanese talent that fits their style.
It’s a clear sign the Yankees want to expand their global network and bring in impact players from abroad. For a team that’s always looking for an edge, this move just makes sense.
Rays spring training injury updates
The Tampa Bay Rays have started spring camp with a few health considerations. Reliever Steven Wilson is dealing with a back issue.
Shortstop Taylor Walls was scratched from a spring lineup because of some oblique tightness. The team described it as precautionary, but it’s still something to watch.
If Walls can’t go, top infield prospect Carson Williams would probably step in at shortstop. That possibility really shows how much the Rays depend on their own young talent, especially early on.
The Rays seem to handle injuries with a practical mindset. They lean on depth and keep prospects ready, hoping to absorb setbacks and keep their roster flexible for the regular season.
Here is the source article for this story: AL East Notes: Westburg, Yankees, Rays
Experience Baseball History in Person
Want to walk the same grounds where baseball legends made history? Find accommodations near iconic ballparks across America and create your own baseball pilgrimage.
Check availability at hotels near: Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium
Plan your ballpark visit: Get MLB Ballpark Tickets and find accommodations nearby.
- Biographies
- Stadium Guides
- Current Baseball Players
- Current Players by Team
- Players that Retired in the 2020s
- Players that Retired in the 2010s
- Players that Retired in the 2000s
- Players that Retired in the 1990s
- Players that Retired in the 1980s
- Players that Retired in the 1970s
- Players that Retired in the 1960s
- Players that Retired in the 1950s
- Players that Retired in the 1940s
- Players that Retired in the 1930s