Alek Manoah’s comeback attempt hits major roadblock
Mar 14, 2021; Dunedin, Florida, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Alek Manoah (75) looks on during their game against the New York Yankees at TD Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Alek Manoah’s comeback bid hit a major stumbling block this week with a rather significant injury diagnosis.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider said Friday that Manoah is dealing with a UCL sprain. The team has yet to decide on next steps, though Manoah will visit Dr. Keith Meister next week.
Alek Manoah has a sprain in his UCL ligament. Degree uncertain right now said manager John Schneider.
Manoah will visit specialist Dr. Keith Meister next Thursday.
— Shi Davidi (@ShiDavidi) May 31, 2024
While not guaranteed, UCL sprains are typically the precursor to a serious surgery. For example, Spencer Strider of the Atlanta Braves was revealed to have a UCL injury before he ultimately underwent season-ending surgery.
Any significant injury would be a brutal blow to Manoah. He looked like a budding ace in 2022, but posted a 5.87 ERA in 2023 and was ultimately demoted to the minors. There were concerns over his conditioning and attitude, but he seemed to be turning a corner in recent starts, with a 1.77 ERA in his four most recent starts. It’s a pretty big blow to the struggling Blue Jays as well, as they have struggled to show consistent signs of getting it together.
