Rangers ace Max Scherzer is progressing faster than anticipated in his recovery from back surgery. Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young winner, underwent surgery in December to address a disc herniation in his back, with initial projections indicating he would be sidelined until June or July. However, manager Bruce Bochy revealed this week that Scherzer could return to MLB action as early as June, which is ahead of the team’s original expectations. Meanwhile, Tyler Mahle, another offseason signing, is aiming for a July return, and Jacob deGrom is eyeing a potential comeback in August following Tommy John surgery.
In other health updates across the league, Cardinals infielder Brendan Donovan is poised for a comeback after his 2023 season was cut short due to an injury to his throwing arm. Initially reported as a flexor tendon repair, Donovan clarified that he underwent an internal brace procedure to fix the UCL in his elbow. Reds starter Nick Lodolo, who was limited to seven appearances last season due to a stress reaction in his left tibia, is experiencing residual leg discomfort that has delayed his Spring Training debut. The Reds are conducting additional testing on Lodolo’s leg before determining the next steps in his recovery. Despite this setback, the team remains hopeful that Lodolo will avoid starting the season on the injured list.
Additionally, the Rays have suffered a notable loss in their infield depth due to an undisclosed injury.
