Yoan Moncada’s Injury Concerns
Yoan Moncada was spotted at training camp with a thumb brace, underscoring the uncertainty surrounding his availability for the season opener. He has not yet resumed throwing or hitting, leaving his readiness for Opening Day in question. The team’s manager remains hopeful for a timely recovery but acknowledges that healing speed will ultimately determine when Moncada can return.
Plans for a Contingency
In preparation for the possibility that Moncada may not be ready in time, the team has set the stage for Luis Rengifo to take on the role of starting third baseman. Rengifo, who experienced hamstring tightness earlier in the spring and missed a few games, is now fit and expected to provide a reliable presence at the hot corner. This shift in the lineup represents a proactive measure to ensure defensive stability from the outset of the season.
Past Injury History and Season Outlook
Moncada’s challenges with injuries are part of a longer pattern, as his recent stint saw him appear in only a handful of games due to a left adductor strain. Over the past three years, the limited number of games has raised concerns about his availability and durability on the field. The team entered the offseason with the expectation that Moncada would fill the gap left by a long-standing injury issue with another key player, making his current condition a significant storyline as the season approaches.