Fantasy Baseball Injury Report Analysis: Perkins, Darvish, Blackmon
When a team opts to take a cryptic approach to details and specifics, evaluating the effects of injuries from afar sometimes can be difficult. Terms like spasms, inflammation and soreness provide vague information that describe a symptom associated with an underlying problem rather than the injury itself. Even terms like sprain or strain can be misleading or provide little insight if they fail to indicate which soft tissue structure is hampered by injury.
Glen Perkins
The Minnesota closer provides a great example of the problems with ambiguous injury reports. Late last week, Perkins was placed on the disabled list with a shoulder strain. The diagnosis was informative enough to reveal the injury is muscular in nature but fails to disclose the involved muscle. The anatomy of the shoulder is comprised of a multitude of muscles beyond the four rotator cuff muscles and includes muscles that extend into the back and forearm. Predicting any complications that may arise, or the necessary steps in recovery is nearly impossible without knowing which muscle, or muscles, have been strained.
However, even when indistinct information is provided, there are steps fantasy owners can take to make the most prudent decision for their team's well-being. To start, consider the player's recent injury history. In Perkins' case he has a lengthy list of injuries the last few seasons, including neck and back problems last year and a forearm strain and nerve issue that prematurely ended his 2014 campaign. If the number of injuries on the affected area or limb were substantial, then it would be wise to expect a longer road to recovery.
Furthermore, pay attention to keywords used by managers and players when describing the injury, as they can provide better insight to the injury. Terms like numbness and tingling can indicate a nerve problem, while tightness and stiffness suggest the injury involves the muscles of the area.
In the case of Perkins, initial tests also revealed fraying of the labrum, but a second opinion determined surgery is not necessary. Perkins will follow a regimen that includes rest and rehab and is expected to need longer than 15 days to recover.
Charlie Blackmon
The Rockies didn't hesitate to move Blackmon to the 15-day DL after the outfielder suffered a toe injury. The exact injury is "turf toe" in his left foot, a condition that often occurs when the big toe is hyperextended. This mechanism of injury results in a sprain to the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint that bridges the foot and toes. Turf toe is often very painful, specifically when one tries to push off of the foot. As a result, the injury limits the affected individual's mobility and ability to make sharp, hard cuts, particularly on the base path. Even worse, turf toe can be a nagging injury that is easily irritated.
Unfortunately for Blackmon owners, this isn't his first bout with the injury either. In 2012, Blackmon missed a majority of the spring with chronic inflammation in his left big toe and lost a chunk of the previous season with a fractured left foot. Given the situation, a three-week absence seems likely, but don't be surprised if this stretches out even longer. A dip in his stolen base total should also be anticipated, as the Rockies will likely limit his activity on the base path upon his return.
Check Swings
Yu Darvish: After missing all of last season with a UCL sprain and a subsequent Tommy John surgery, Darvish is set to begin a rehab assignment this week. He has progressed smoothly through each phase of his rehab, but it seems likely the Rangers will remain patient with his rehab over the next few weeks. He is on track for a mid-May return.
Jung-Ho Kang: The Pirates infielder began a rehab assignment Monday with Triple-A Indianapolis. Kang has spent the spring recovering from a September surgery to repair a fractured tibia and meniscus tear in his knee. He has been an active participant in extended spring training games, but a return to real games will serve as the final hurdle on his road to recovery. The team hasn't revealed how long it expects his rehab stint to last, but he should be back with the big league club by early May at the latest. He's worth a stash if you need infield help, particularly at third base.
Starling Marte: In addition to Kang, the Pirates have other injury problems to manage. It appears Marte avoided a serious injury after being struck on the right hand last weekend. No breaks were discovered, but the team held him out of Sunday's game. After an off day Monday, Marte doubled in his return Tuesday. He looks safe to employ as usual.
Tyson Ross: After expressing optimism about a quick return, Ross isn't expected back this week when he is eligible to come off the disabled list with a shoulder injury. That the San Diego right-hander has only played catch -- for five minutes from 75-80 feet -- since his Opening Day loss is a good indication that a return remains way off. The team hopes he will begin his throwing program at some point this week but, again, fantasy owners need patience.
Pablo Sandoval: The Red Sox and Sandoval appear headed for a messy breakup, as concerns about his weight and now a left shoulder injury have surfaced. Sandoval undergwent a MRI on the injured joint that was reportedly "pretty bad." The team continues to describe the issue as a strain but scheduled a visit with renowned orthopedist Dr. James Andrews for a second opinion. However, the shoulder was too sore to be examined by Andrews. The appropriate treatment, which could include surgery, will be determined after Andrews finally looks at it. Sandoval wasn't expected to be a major fantasy factor, but his extended absence solidifies Travis Shaw's hold on the starting third base job in Boston.
Stotts works as a Certified Athletic Trainer (MAT, ATC, PES, CES) and is a former winner of the Best Fantasy Football Article from the Fantasy Sports Trade Association.
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