The Baltimore Orioles removed slugger Samuel Basallo from Thursday’s spring training game against the Detroit Tigers after just one plate appearance due to abdominal discomfort. Meanwhile, New York Yankees’ Giancarlo Stanton is determined to play the whole of the 2026 season despite his tennis elbow injury.
Let’s check out these updates.
Orioles’ Calls Samuel Basallo’s Exit Precautionary
Samuel Basallo only got one plate appearance before being removed. The catcher reported right-side abdominal discomfort following a play at the plate, where he made a diving tag to record an out. He was in pain after the play, as athletic trainers checked up on him and took him off the field under his own power.
After the game, Orioles manager Craig Albernaz said the removal was “completely precautionary” as it’s still early in Spring Training and risking injury for more playing time was not worth it. He also confirmed that Basallo won’t require further testing, suggesting the injury is not significant.
Basallo, one of the top prospects of the Orioles, signed an eight-year, $67 million contract last season. He is expected to play an important role in the Orioles lineup this season.
Giancarlo Stanton Eyes Spring Debut Despite Tennis Elbow
Giancarlo Stanton is still battling chronic tennis elbow (epicondylitis) in both arms. The condition has been around since 2024 and limited him a lot last season. The injury is so significant that he can’t even do normal tasks like opening a bottle or a bag of chips. Despite that, the designated hitter/outfielder wants to play the full season.
Despite missing the first two months of the 2025 season due to the same condition, Stanton managed to hit 24 home runs in 77 games.
So far, Stanton has not played in a Grapefruit League game yet. The Yankees are planning his spring training debut in early March, likely around March 3, in an exhibition against Team Panama. In the meantime, the slugger is taking batting practice and doing drills. Two weeks of regular at-bats should put him on track to be ready by Opening Day (March 25).
Read More News:
MLB Injury Update: Blake Snell Facing Opening Day Uncertainty as José Berríos Declares “I’m Back”
