As we gear up for another thrilling Major League Baseball season, it's time to welcome back some familiar faces who've been sidelined by injuries. Let's dive into the comeback stories of 10 notable players, each eager to make an impact after overcoming physical setbacks.
- Gerrit Cole, RHP, New York Yankees
Gerrit Cole finally snagged his first Cy Young award in 2023, but the road since has been rocky. Limited to just 17 starts in 2024 due to injury, Cole's 2025 season was entirely wiped out by Tommy John surgery.
While a theoretical Opening Day return was in sight, the Yankees are eyeing a June comeback. One thing's for sure, Cole's return will be a significant boost for the Yankees before the season's halfway mark.
- Zack Wheeler, RHP, Philadelphia Phillies
Zack Wheeler's 2025 was cut short after August 15, thanks to thoracic outlet decompression surgery. The Phillies missed his arm as they chased championship dreams.
Wheeler, who humorously noted keeping the rib removed during surgery, is set to return in the first half of the season. With a stellar 146 ERA+ and four top-10 Cy Young finishes in his Phillies tenure, his return will be eagerly anticipated.
- Jared Jones, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates
Remember Jared Jones before Paul Skenes? Jones had an impressive start in 2024, boasting a 3.05 ERA in his first 10 starts.
Unfortunately, a torn UCL led to internal brace surgery, sidelining him for 2025. He's on the 60-day injured list, targeting a late May return.
Once back, Jones aims to make waves for the Pirates.
- Carlos Rodón, LHP, New York Yankees
Carlos Rodón is a bit of an outlier here-he didn't miss 2025, recording career highs in starts and innings. Postseason surgery for a bone spur and loose bodies in his arm means he won't be ready for Opening Day, but a late April return is on the horizon if recovery goes smoothly.
- Justin Steele, LHP, Chicago Cubs
Justin Steele's 2025 was limited to just four starts due to UCL revision repair surgery. The Cubs have ruled him out for Opening Day, but fans can expect him back before the All-Star break. Steele's previous seasons saw him post a solid 3.10 ERA, making his return highly anticipated.
- Joe Musgrove, RHP, San Diego Padres
Joe Musgrove hasn't seen action since the 2024 NL Wild Card Series, where an elbow injury led to Tommy John surgery. Now fully recovered, Musgrove is looking to make over 20 starts for the first time since his 2022 All-Star season.
- Triston Casas, 1B, Boston Red Sox
Triston Casas' 2025 was cut short by a ruptured patellar tendon. The Red Sox have been tight-lipped about his return, with no spring training or Opening Day appearances expected. With Willson Contreras now in the mix, the Red Sox will have some decisions to make when Casas is fit to play.
- Austin Riley, 3B, Atlanta Braves
Austin Riley, once an MVP contender, has struggled the past two seasons. A core-muscle surgery ended his 2025 early, but a healthy Riley could be pivotal for the Braves as he aims to rediscover his form.
- Shane McClanahan, LHP, Tampa Bay Rays
Shane McClanahan was a rising star until Tommy John surgery and a triceps nerve issue sidelined him. With a fresh perspective on life, McClanahan is ready to rejoin the Rays' rotation for Opening Day, eager to reclaim his status as a top-tier lefty.
- Grayson Rodriguez, RHP, Los Angeles Angels
Once a top prospect, Grayson Rodriguez's early career has been marred by a 4.11 ERA and elbow issues. After surgery for bone spurs and a trade to the Angels, Rodriguez is set for a fresh start in 2026, debuting with his new club.
These players' returns are more than just comebacks; they're opportunities to rewrite their stories and make a significant impact on the field. Fans, keep your eyes peeled-these athletes are ready to shine once again.