Hidden Injuries, 2026
Apr 29 2026
Remember how bad Elly De La Cruz was in the second half last year?
If you don't, here's a sobering reminder: he hit .248 (.240 xBA) with just 4 HR and a measly 64 xPX in 333 PA. De La Cruz admitted to playing through a quad injury during the second half (he was also dealing with a personal tragedy, the loss of his sister), which surely contributed to the instant collapse in both skills and results.
De La Cruz's case isn't uncommon—Anthony Volpe had shoulder surgery shortly after the 2025 season, Jose Altuve played through a late-season foot issue, Carlos Rodón had surgery to remove loose bodies in his elbow in October, etc.—but it does illustrate how we're often forced to make roster decisions with incomplete information.
Sometimes...
Almost!
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