As Spring Training progresses, the Baltimore Orioles have disclosed ongoing concerns about infielder Jordan Westburg’s health after he was sidelined with an oblique injury and is currently undergoing further evaluation. This Jordan Westburg injury update arrives amid broader rehab developments around the league as players aim to prepare for the upcoming MLB season.
Reviewing Shane Bieber’s Progress in His Injury Recovery
On the first day of Spring Training, the Toronto Blue Jays announced that pitcher Shane Bieber would begin the season on the Injury List due to offseason elbow soreness. He sustained the injury in the previous months but managed to pitch through the summer and postseason, helping lead Toronto’s rotation to the World Series.
Initially, Bieber was limited to throwing from a flat ground at 90 feet, but he has since advanced to throwing at 120 feet. John Schneider, the Blue Jays manager, provided a recent progress update during TSN’s Overdrive broadcast, indicating Bieber’s rehab is advancing steadily.
Biebs isn’t that far behind. Biebs is feeling good. He’s out to [throwing at] 120 feet. Hopefully in the next week to two weeks, he’s getting off the mound and starting his progression.
?John Schneider, Blue Jays Manager
Bieber, who holds a career ERA of 3.24, joined Toronto after being traded from Cleveland during Tommy John surgery last season. He made only 23 starts across the last two years before pitching 59 innings for the Blue Jays, including postseason appearances. Bieber remains signed to his $16 million contract for the upcoming season.
Ongoing Concerns Following Westburg’s Latest Injury Setback
The Orioles initially disclosed that Jordan Westburg would miss early Spring Training games due to an oblique strain, but more recent updates suggest a more complex injury situation. Manager Craig Albernaz revealed on Thursday that Westburg has struggled physically while attempting to participate in team activities.
He’s just unable to participate right now,
Albernaz stated.
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.
?Craig Albernaz, Orioles Manager
Westburg recently underwent an MRI to investigate a possible elbow injury in addition to his oblique issue. General manager Mike Elias indicated that the organization expects to provide further updates soon, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding Westburg’s status as the regular season nears.
The team is navigating a challenging start to the year, already placing second baseman Jackson Holliday on the Injured List due to hamate surgery. With Westburg also likely sidelined, younger players like Coby Mayo are anticipated to receive playing time at third base, aiming to match Westburg’s career batting average of .264. This marks Westburg’s third major injury scare, following previous arm fractures and hamstring problems.
Implications of Westburg’s Injury on Orioles’ Season Plans
The Orioles face significant lineup adjustments if Westburg remains out for an extended period, as his absence could impact their infield depth and offensive production. The team’s approach to managing his rehabilitation will be critical in determining how quickly he can return to full activity. The medical evaluations currently underway will shape the next steps in his recovery process.
Given the challenges the Orioles have already confronted with key players sidelined, Westburg’s health will be pivotal in maintaining roster stability. The organization’s forthcoming reports are likely to have considerable bearing on their early-season strategy and depth chart decisions.
John Schneider with an update on Shane Bieber, just now on @OverDrive1050:
"Biebs isn't that far behind. Biebs is feeling good. He's out to [throwing at] 120 feet. Hopefully in the next week to two weeks, he's getting off the mound and starting his progression."
— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) February 19, 2026
Mike Elias on 105.7 The Fan, asked about Jordan Westburg, only confirmed oblique issue. Said will have something to share "very, very soon" when asked about reports of another injury. Not at point to address anything publicly.
— Roch Kubatko (@masnRoch) February 20, 2026
