MLB Injury Updates Today: Dave Roberts shares positive Mookie Betts news; Max Fried set to start for Braves on Sunday and more
The Dodgers had a thumping shutout victory on the field and were also rewarded with some injury updates, with two of their star players set to return. Another team that needs wins, the Atlanta Braves, will also see a return of one of their aces.
Let's take a look at the new updates concerning return news for some key players.
#1. Mookie Betts close to Dodgers return
Dave Roberts had some good news for Dodgers fans as he announced superstar batter Mookie Betts is expected to return to the lineup soon. Betts has missed almost eight weeks of action after suffering a hand injury in a game against the Kansas City Royals in mid-June.
Betts' rehab went fast, despite expectations that it would take at least two months for him to return to the starting lineup. Roberts provided a potential return date of August 18th.
Betts' addition will greatly benefit the Dodgers as they continue to battle with injuries to players such as Max Muncy and Miguel Rojas, while Freddie Freeman is on family leave.
#2. Max Fried to be activated by Braves for start
Max Fried will spend the minimum expected on the Injury List after the Braves announced that he will be starting for the team against the Miami Marlins. Fried was shut down 15 days prior due to forearm neuritis, with no expected return date or timeline.
Max Fried's return will be crucial for Atlanta, as they are currently 60-50 and are somehow clinging onto the top NL Wild Card spot. The competition is already crowded for the three places, with the Diamondbacks, Padres and Mets not far behind.
The two-time All-Star has a 3.08 ERA from 18 starts this season.
#3. Yoshinobu Yamamoto throws bullpen session for the Dodgers
In more good news for the Dodgers, starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto threw a 20-pitch bullpen session ahead of their game against the Oakland Athletics. The Japanese pitcher has been on the shelf since the 16th of June due to right triceps tightness.
Even though there is no set timeline for his return, the Dodgers will hope to activate him from the 60-day IL by next month. The Dodgers are already low on starters in their ranks, with Walker Buehler, Landon Knack and Michael Grove out due to injury.