Welcome to the Fantrax MLB Injury Report for Friday, May 15, 2025. In today’s edition, Yordan Alvarez appears to be close to a return, but is not quite there yet. Also, Spencer Strider has himself an estimated return opponent, but the date has not yet been set. Finally, how worried should we be regarding Byron Buxton and Carlos Correa after they both collided in the outfield yesterday? All of that and so much more in today’s MLB Injury Report from Fantrax.
MLB Injury Report
Yordan Alvarez – OF Houston Astros
Yordan Alvarez is “really close” and had “one of his best days,” Espada said. He needs a few more days.
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) May 15, 2025
Alvarez has been progressing, albeit slowly, daily. He has cleared every hurdle, whether major or minor, but has now seemingly plateaued here with what is likely the last hurdle to clear. It is encouraging to know that he is getting close, though. Whether or not he plays this weekend is unknown, but he should be ready to be in your lineups next week.
Spencer Strider – SP Atlanta Braves
Braves manager Brian Snitker says that pitcher Spencer Strider will come off of the IL and start next week against the Nationals.
— 680 The Fan (@680TheFan) May 15, 2025
This was the news on Thursday, a day after Strider threw a successful up-and-down bullpen session. It was expected but also refreshing to see some good news for a guy who worked so hard to return after season-ending elbow surgery last year, and making his debut this year. It remains to be seen which day of the week he will pitch, but fantasy owners should start him regardless. And, as always, be prepared!
Ronald Acuna – OF Atlanta Braves
Ronald Acuña Jr. with a ringing double to left in his third at-bat.
That ball was stung. #Braves pic.twitter.com/QceU2Xe3Do
— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) May 16, 2025
This was Acuna’s first game with Triple-A Gwinnett, and this ball was hit like a rocket. He finished the game with two hits over three at-bats and physically looked great. While he still has a ways to go, this was a sight to see and a positive step in the right direction.
Tyler Glasnow – SP Los Angeles Dodgers
Dave Roberts shared an update on Tyler Glasnow, who played catch today.
"From what I hear, the catch play, the flat-ground stuff has been good. I'm not sure when he's going to get on the mound, though."
— Matthew Moreno (@Matthew__Moreno) May 15, 2025
While it’s great news that Glasnow is throwing after the positive meeting with team doctors, it is concerning that he has no timeline for a return to the mound. That shows that the team may not have a clear picture of what lies ahead, exactly what they’re dealing with, and what to do next. This may be a touch-and-feel approach for him to see how his body responds to throwing once again. His recent injury history suggests there are many red flags here to worry about, so any success could be tenuous. Approach with caution.
Minnesota Twins – Team Update
Update: Byron Buxton and Carlos Correa are in MLB’s concussion protocol after their third-inning collision. https://t.co/T78NbdoFbM
— Bobby Nightengale (@nightengalejr) May 15, 2025
It was a nasty collision that sparked worries in Minnesota, as both Carlos Correa and Byron Buxton were forced to leave the game due to head injuries. Both players have extensive injury histories for different ailments, but what they do have in common that makes this even more worrisome is their tendency to heal slowly. It was clarified later in the day that just because both men are in concussion protocol, it doesn’t mean that they actually have a concussion. It’s reassuring to know that there is a chance that both players will come out of this okay, though it wouldn’t be surprising to see them both miss today’s game. Stay tuned for updates.
TJ Friedl – OF Cincinnati Reds
Terry Francona on TJ Friedl (wrist): He was just available to pinch run or go in for defense (yesterday). It’s more likely the same today. He’s going to grab a bat again and see how he feels. We’re trying to target tomorrow. That’s the hope.
— Charlie Goldsmith (@CharlieG__) May 15, 2025
Friedl missing Thursday’s game was somewhat expected, given that the team knew coming in that he would be limited to pinch-running if necessary. The big test will come later today when he picks up a bat and tests out his wrist. Because the team is hopeful, it’s conceivable that he does in fact return, but even if he doesn’t, it’s noteworthy that he is close nonetheless.
Jeimer Candelario – 1B Cincinnati Reds
A good sign for Jeimer Candelario (back), who's playing catch on the field. It looks like he's in the middle of a ramp up progression.
— Charlie Goldsmith (@CharlieG__) May 15, 2025
Despite this, Candelario is still a long way from returning and may not have a spot in the lineup when he returns. With his extensive injury history and his extremely slow start to the season, he may be forced to the bench and be used as a depth piece until someone in front of him struggles mightily or gets injured.
