SARASOTA, Fla. — Baltimore Orioles third baseman Jordan Westburg remains unable to participate in spring training after suffering a right oblique injury during the offseason. As of Thursday, the extent of Westburg’s condition remains uncertain, with questions emerging about whether an elbow problem is also contributing to his absence.
Manager Discusses Westburg’s Current Health and Evaluation Process
First-year Orioles manager Craig Albernaz addressed Westburg’s injury status during a Thursday press briefing.
“He’s just unable to participate right now,”
Albernaz said.
“He’s getting evaluated by our medical team and also outside people to make sure we have a plan in place, and see what’s going on with Jordan to get him going.”
When pressed about whether the issue involved the oblique or an additional elbow concern, Albernaz responded, “Just physically unable to go.”
Concerns Over Severity of Westburg’s Injury
Regarding the possibility that Westburg’s injury could be more serious than initially expected, Albernaz emphasized caution.
“Just want to make sure that we do our due diligence and make sure Jordan is in the best chance to play this year,”
he stated, underlining the team’s careful approach to his recovery.
Westburg’s Performance and Injury History
Westburg, who turned 27 on Wednesday, had a productive 2024 season before injury setbacks. He posted a .265 batting average with 17 home runs and 41 RBIs in 85 games last year, despite missing time due to a left hamstring strain and a right ankle sprain. The previous season, Westburg hit .265 with 18 home runs and 63 RBIs across 107 games, including an All-Star Game appearance two weeks before suffering a broken right hand from a hit-by-pitch incident.
Team Updates on Injuries Affecting Spring Training Roster
Mike Elias, the Orioles’ president of baseball operations, noted last week that Westburg was recovering from a right oblique injury expected to delay his spring training game appearances, with the first game scheduled for Saturday. Additionally, the team announced second baseman Jackson Holliday will miss the start of the season due to recent surgery on his right hand to repair a broken hamate bone.
Implications for the Orioles’ Season Outlook
Westburg’s ongoing injury presents a significant challenge for Baltimore as the team prepares for the season. His absence from spring training restricts his ability to regain game readiness and may impact the Orioles’ infield stability early on. With Holliday also sidelined, the team faces a series of lineup adjustments and will need to manage these setbacks carefully to remain competitive.
