Rays’ Taj Bradley Placed on IL for Right Pectoral Inflammation

This article recaps Taj Bradley’s latest setback for the Minnesota Twins. The young right-hander landed on the 15-day injured list with right pectoral inflammation.

The MRI came back clean, and the team sees that as a good sign. A second opinion with Dr. Keith Meister will guide what happens next.

Bradley’s value to the rotation is hard to overstate. His injury just piles on for a staff that’s already been through the wringer.

The immediate schedule changes? They’re not ideal for the Twins, who are entering a packed stretch.

Injury Update and MRI Findings

The Twins announced Taj Bradley has been placed on the 15-day injured list with right pectoral inflammation, retroactive to Wednesday. An MRI in Minneapolis showed no significant damage, so there’s some relief in the clubhouse.

The team’s calling the clean imaging a positive early sign. They’re taking the cautious route while the medical staff weighs next steps.

Manager Derek Shelton described the MRI as probably the best news they could hope for right now. He said a second opinion will help them decide what to do next.

Bradley’s health is the big question as Minnesota tries to keep its rotation afloat.

Second Opinion and Timeline

The Twins have set up a consult with Dr. Keith Meister for a second opinion. There’s no timeline for Bradley’s return yet, and the team says they’ll base treatment on Meister’s findings and how Bradley feels.

For now, they have to plan for either a longer absence or a slow ramp-up. It all depends on how Bradley responds to whatever treatment they go with.

Bradley’s Performance and Role in the Rotation

Taj Bradley emerged as a key piece for Minnesota this season. He posted a 4-1 record and a 2.87 ERA over eight starts in what’s basically his first full season in the majors.

He also led the Twins with 52 strikeouts and tossed 47 innings, showing his importance as a breakout anchor. Bradley came over from Tampa Bay for Griffin Jax last July and gave Minnesota six starts after the deal, finishing 6-8 with a 5.05 ERA between the two clubs last season.

His knack for throwing strikes and his athleticism made this injury sting even more. The Twins were counting on him taking a step forward.

Now, the organization faces a real test of its depth. With Bradley sidelined, Minnesota’s rotation is thin, so they’ll have to lean on internal arms and maybe call up help from the minors.

Impact on the Pitching Staff and Depth

Injuries have hit the Twins’ plans hard and fast. Pablo López is out for the season after Tommy John surgery.

Rookie Mick Abel is dealing with right elbow inflammation too. With three of five rotation spots on the IL, Bradley’s absence hurts even more as the Twins try to stay in the AL Central race.

Roster Moves and Schedule Adjustments

To fill Bradley’s roster spot, right-hander Travis Adams came up from Triple-A St. Paul. In the short-term, Minnesota has shuffled the rotation for the Cleveland series.

They’ll go with a bullpen game instead of Bradley’s planned start. Right-handed reliever Andrew Morris will handle Sunday’s series finale, a move that should help preserve the bullpen while the club waits for more news on Bradley.

What This Means for the Twins Going Forward

Bradley’s health status will drive the team’s approach over the next several weeks. If the MRI comes back clean and Meister gives the green light, he might return soon, maybe after a quick stint in the minors to get his rhythm back.

The Twins have to juggle innings, rest, and workload for a rotation that’s already missing Pablo López long-term. Abel’s elbow inflammation just adds to the headache.

 
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