MLB Spring Training Updates: Cole, Lopez, Westburg, and More
As Major League Baseball spring training progresses, several key players are navigating injury recoveries and contract developments. Updates on Gerrit Cole, Pablo Lopez, Jordan Westburg, and Elias Diaz highlight the evolving landscape of the league as teams prepare for the 2026 season.
Gerrit Cole’s Recovery and Progress
New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole is making significant strides in his recovery from Tommy John elbow surgery, which he underwent in March 2025. Cole threw approximately 20 pitches of batting practice on February 21, 2026, facing Aaron Judge, Trent Grisham, and Jasson Dominguez. He previously completed his first bullpen session a week prior. The Yankees anticipate Cole will be ready to return sometime between May and September, aligning with the typical 14-18 month recovery timeline for Tommy John surgery.
Notably, Cole has adjusted his pitching windup, now bringing his hands over his head instead of stopping at his chest, a change implemented before his injury.
Pablo Lopez to Undergo Season-Ending Surgery
Minnesota Twins right-hander Pablo Lopez will undergo a second Tommy John surgery, ending his 2026 season. The decision came after the team discovered a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) during a recent bullpen session. The surgery is scheduled for next week in Texas. Lopez, who will turn 30 in early March, previously underwent Tommy John surgery as a minor leaguer in 2014.
Pat Murphy Signs Contract Extension with Milwaukee Brewers
Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy has agreed to a contract extension after leading the team to division titles and earning National League Manager of the Year honors in his first two seasons. Murphy took over as manager after Craig Counsell departed for the Chicago Cubs following the 2023 season. The Brewers have not disclosed the terms of the new deal. Murphy currently holds a 190-134 record as Milwaukee’s manager.
Jordan Westburg Sidelined with Elbow Injury
Baltimore Orioles starting third baseman Jordan Westburg will be sidelined for at least a month due to a partial ligament tear in his right elbow. Westburg was already limited in spring training due to a right oblique injury sustained during the offseason. He will receive a platelet injection to address the UCL tear. The 27-year-old has faced injury challenges in recent seasons, missing time in 2025 with hamstring and ankle issues and a broken hand in 2024.
Elias Diaz Joins Kansas City Royals
The Kansas City Royals have signed veteran catcher Elias Diaz to a minor league deal, with an invitation to join the big league camp next week. Diaz spent the 2025 season with the San Diego Padres, hitting .204 with nine home runs and 29 RBIs in 106 games. He previously played for the Pittsburgh Pirates (2014-2018) and Colorado Rockies (2019-2024), with the Rockies trading him to the Padres during the 2024 season. Diaz was the 2023 All-Star Game MVP while playing for the Colorado Rockies.
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