Common Injuries Among Major League Baseball Players

The World Series is here, which means baseball fans are not only eager to see which team will take home the championship, but also keen to understand the physical demands placed on their favorite players. Christopher John Spagnuola, MD, an orthopedic surgeon with Seaview Orthopaedics, a partner practice of RWJBarnabas Health, is on staff at Monmouth Medical Center and serves as team physician for the Jersey Shore BlueClaws minor league baseball team. He provides expert insights into the common injuries associated with different MLB positions and what to watch for in the high-stakes final series.

"Baseball is a sport that requires a unique combination of strength, agility, and endurance," Dr. Spagnuola explains. "Each position on the field demands specific physical capabilities, which can predispose players to certain types of injuries."

Pitchers: Shoulder and Elbow Strain

Pitchers are particularly vulnerable to shoulder and elbow injuries due to the repetitive motion involved in throwing. Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has not pitched since having elbow surgery last September but has been able to hit and play in the field this season. The Los Angeles Dodgers have also been managing without pitcher Tony Gonsolin, who underwent Tommy John surgery after struggling with an elbow injury earlier in the season. "The act of pitching puts enormous stress on the shoulder joint and the ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow," says Dr. Spagnuola. "Which can result in problems such as rotator cuff tears or ulnar collateral ligament injuries, and that may require surgical intervention, such as the Tommy John surgery."

With teams battling through the playoffs, fans should keep an eye on the health of their pitching staff. "Protecting the strength and integrity of a pitcher's arm is critical, especially in a high-stakes series where every game is pivotal," he adds.

Infielders: Hand and Wrist Injuries

After recovering from a concussion earlier in the season, New York Yankees' first baseman Anthony Rizzo returned to the Yankees lineup for the ALCS roster but has been dealing with lingering issues, including unhealed, broken fingers after being hit by a pitch.

Many infielders also are susceptible to hand and wrist injuries due to the nature of their positions. "These players are constantly fielding ground balls and making quick throws, often reaching speeds upward of 80 miles per hour, which can cause wrist and hand fractures or sprains," says Dr. Spagnuola. "Preventing these kinds of injuries requires protective gear and proper conditioning."

During the stressful, decisive moments of the playoffs, the quick reflexes and solid defensive plays of infielders will be important. "In close games, having a well-conditioned infield can make all the difference by reducing the chance of injury and preserving defensive power," he emphasizes.

Outfielders: Knee and Ankle Strains

Outfielders naturally cover more ground, often making sudden sprints or jumps, making them prone to knee and ankle strains. The Yankees' star outfielder Aaron Judge dealt with a torn ligament in his toe for much of the 2023 season, affecting his speed and mobility. "The abrupt starts and stops and lateral motions can result in acute sprains or overuse problems," Dr. Spagnuola explains. "In order to play well and lower their risk of injury, outfielders need to have strong ankle and knee stability."

In the high-pressure environment of the World Series, the agility and speed of outfielders will be under intense strain. "Outfielders should stay in peak condition to meet the demands of the game, especially when making crucial plays that can turn the tide of a series," he notes.

Catchers: Lower Back and Finger Injuries

Catchers face a unique set of challenges, including lower back strain from the crouched position and finger injuries from handling fast pitches. "The repetitive motion of catching and the physical toll of blocking pitches can lead to chronic lower back pain and finger injuries," says Dr. Spagnuola. "The two most important things catchers can do to avoid these problems are strengthen their core and keep their flexibility."

As players gear up for the World Series, the catchers' ability to stay healthy and perform consistently will be a crucial factor in their teams' success. "A healthy catcher can significantly influence the game by managing pitchers effectively and making big plays," Dr. Spagnuola adds.

Preventative Measures and Recovery

Dr. Spagnuola emphasizes the importance of preventative measures and proper recovery protocols in minimizing injuries. "Fans watching from home can gain a new appreciation for the care and support that keep their favorite players on the field," he says. "Understanding the common injuries associated with each position not only highlights the physical demands of the sport but also underscores the importance of comprehensive medical support in professional baseball," concludes Dr. Spagnuola.