Vladimir Guerrero Jr. — Left Oblique Strain
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has strained his left oblique and will be held out of action for approximately 3 weeks. This likely does not alter Vladito’s value for 2019 as he was likely to not begin the season in the majors anyway – he will now rehab instead of just being held down.
This oblique strain has been reported as Grade 1, which is consistent with the provided 3 week timetable. The left oblique produces rotational force through the core of a right-handed hitter, which may limit Vlad until fully healthy. With the young top prospect, I expect that this is part precaution and part means to limit his service time in a more discretionary way. This injury may delay Vlad’s 2019 debut by a week or so, but I don’t expect lingering effects once he is ready.
Estimated return: Mid-to-late April.
Nick Castellanos — Left Hand Contusion
Nick Castellanos was struck on the left hand by an errant pitch. X-rays came back negative for any fractures, and we can assume that the injury is just a contusion at this time. He will miss a day or two, but should return to play shortly.
Estimated return: Ready for Opening Day.
Jose Altuve – Left Side Soreness
Jose Altuve has missed a few games due to left side soreness, and will now be held out for approximately a week to allow him to recover. He is not expected to return to action until 03/17. This appears to be some form of and oblique issue, and the Astros are not typically forthcoming with diagnoses. Given that Altuve has tried to play through this soreness/discomfort, I anticipate that it is at most a grade 1 left oblique strain, which isn’t likely to limit Altuve’s 2019 in a significant way. He may be held out or sit extra days for the first few weeks of the season without lingering effects to follow.
Estimated return: Ready for Opening Day or shortly thereafter.
Luis Severino — Right Shoulder Inflammation
Luis Severino has been shutdown due to right shoulder inflammation. MRI came back negative for any structural damage. Severino received an anti-inflammatory injection, which will prevent him from throwing for two weeks at which point he will be re-evaluated.
Assuming the anti-inflammatory injection is effective, Severino will need time to continue a throwing program and build arm strength and stamina in order to rejoin the rotation. In total, he is not likely to return to regular play until some point in May. Shoulder inflammation can linger and may continue to be an issue for Severino going forward.
Estimated return: Mid-May.
Tommy Pham — Right Shoulder Soreness
Tommy Pham is battling right shoulder soreness, and will be limited for the next few games. This doesn’t appear to be a major concern, and Pham’s 2019 season should not be effected in a major way. He may experience reduced power around the beginning of the year, but there’s no indication that any limitations will linger.
Estimated return: Ready for Opening Day.
