MLB Spring Training Sees Rash of Injuries, Castellanos Exits Phillies

Verlander returns to Detroit as Dodgers re-sign familiar names

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Several top MLB stars, including Francisco Lindor, Corbin Carroll and Jackson Holliday, have been sidelined with hamate injuries during spring training, dampening the excitement of the preseason. Meanwhile, outfielder Nick Castellanos has parted ways with the Philadelphia Phillies, and veteran pitcher Justin Verlander is reuniting with the Detroit Tigers.

Why it matters

These early spring training injuries could have a significant impact on teams' preparations for the upcoming season, especially with the World Baseball Classic around the corner. Castellanos' departure from the Phillies and Verlander's return to Detroit are also notable moves that could shape the competitive landscape in MLB.

The details

The hamate injuries to Lindor, Carroll and Holliday are particularly concerning, as they often require extended recovery times that can disrupt a player's readiness for the start of the season. The Phillies have released Castellanos, who addressed an infamous incident that occurred in Miami last year. Verlander, a future Hall of Famer, is rejoining the Tigers as he continues his pursuit of 300 career wins.

  • Spring training is currently underway in Arizona and Florida.
  • The World Baseball Classic is scheduled to begin on March 8, 2026.

The players

Francisco Lindor

All-Star shortstop for the New York Mets.

Corbin Carroll

Top prospect and outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Jackson Holliday

Highly touted shortstop prospect for the Baltimore Orioles.

Nick Castellanos

Veteran outfielder who was recently released by the Philadelphia Phillies.

Justin Verlander

Future Hall of Fame pitcher who is returning to the Detroit Tigers.

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What they’re saying

“We must be cautious with these hamate injuries, as they can linger and derail a player's preparation for the season.”

— Jake Mintz, Co-host, Baseball Bar-B-Cast (Yahoo Sports)

“Castellanos' departure from the Phillies is a surprising move, and it will be interesting to see where he lands next and how it impacts his career.”

— Jordan Shusterman, Co-host, Baseball Bar-B-Cast (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

The MLB season is set to begin on March 28, 2026, and teams will be closely monitoring the recovery progress of players dealing with hamate injuries to determine their availability for Opening Day.

The takeaway

These early spring training injuries and roster moves serve as a reminder that the road to the MLB season is often filled with unexpected challenges, and teams must be prepared to adapt and overcome obstacles to achieve success.