Potential 60-Day IL Candidates as Spring Training Commences
As Major League Baseball gears up for the 2026 season, teams are bracing for the impending spring training and the opportunities it brings. With the 60-day injured list (IL) reinstated, clubs are considering player transfers and recovery timelines for several athletes post-injury.
Spring Training and the 60-Day IL
Spring training this year starts between February 10th and 13th, due to the World Baseball Classic. As teams finalize their rosters, the 60-day IL will become a crucial consideration, particularly for players expected to miss significant time.
Key Players on the 60-Day IL Watch List
- Los Angeles Angels: Anthony Rendon and Ben Joyce are both uncertain for the upcoming season. Rendon is recovering from hip surgery and is unlikely to participate in spring training. Joyce, who underwent shoulder surgery, may also miss time.
- Houston Astros: Hayden Wesneski, Ronel Blanco, and Brandon Walter all had Tommy John surgery in 2025. Their focus is on returning later in the season, making them candidates for the 60-day IL.
- Atlanta Braves: Players like Ha-Seong Kim and AJ Smith-Shawver also face long recovery timelines. Kim recently underwent hand surgery, while Smith-Shawver will likely be placed on the 60-day IL after Tommy John surgery.
- Cleveland Guardians: Although Andrew Walters and David Fry have uncertain return dates, they may still be healthy by Opening Day.
- San Diego Padres: Yu Darvish’s future is uncertain after UCL surgery, while Jason Adam and Jhony Brito are also contenders for the 60-day IL.
Competitive Landscape
The 60-day IL’s reinstatement may provide teams with added flexibility for transactions. Each team must balance their roster while considering the potential for trades and waiver claims as they start the preseason.
With numerous free agents still available, including notable pitchers such as Justin Verlander and Zac Gallen, teams may take advantage of this additional flexibility to solidify their rosters.
Injury Demographics Across Teams
| Team | Player | Injury Type | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angels | Anthony Rendon | Hip Surgery | Uncertain |
| Astros | Hayden Wesneski | Toms John Surgery | Second Half |
| Braves | Ha-Seong Kim | Hand Surgery | Mid-May |
| Padres | Yu Darvish | UCL Surgery | Season Ending |
As player conditions become clearer during spring training, decisions on the 60-day IL will impact not only roster composition but also the overall dynamics of the upcoming season. Teams are preparing to navigate these complexities as they aim for success in the highly competitive MLB landscape.
