Injury Continues to Haunt Jordan Westberg and the Orioles
Jordan Westberg’s injury troubles are far from over for the Orioles. The promising third baseman has been diagnosed with a partial tear of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow, according to Mike Elias, the Orioles’ director of baseball operations.
Westberg is set to receive a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection on Friday. However, it’s unclear how this will impact his recovery as it’s likely he’ll miss all of April. It’s a tough break for both the player and the team—even worse if the injection fails and he requires surgery.
The 2020 first-round pick has shown he can perform when healthy, but that’s been a significant challenge. Last season, he managed just 85 games after dealing with multiple injuries throughout a tumultuous year for the Orioles, who ended up in last place with a 75-87 record. His rookie season in 2023 saw him play only 68 games, while a fracture in his right hand limited him to 107 games the following year.
During January spring training, Westberg focused on his right oblique muscle, but he was “not physically able to participate” until this latest setback became clear.
“He is physically unable to play at this time,” Orioles manager Craig Albanaz mentioned. The team has consulted not only their own medical staff but outside specialists to devise a proper plan for Westberg’s situation.
On a positive note, when he’s fit, Westberg boasts a career batting line of .264/.312/.456, with 38 home runs and 127 RBIs, including an impressive 18 home runs and 63 RBIs during his 107-game stretch in 2024.
With this injury, the Orioles face complications in their lineup, as half of their starting infield is out, with Jackson Holiday also sidelined due to a fractured right hamate.
Interestingly, Coby Mayo may find new opportunities to step up in Westberg’s absence. The Orioles have been proactive this offseason, looking to rebound from 2025’s disappointing results by bringing in players like Pete Alonso, Taylor Ward, and Chris Bassitt.
