The Toronto Blue Jays have received unfortunate news as relief pitcher Erik Swanson has been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. The diagnosis comes after Swanson experienced discomfort in his right elbow, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming season.
Swanson, a key part of the Blue Jaysâ bullpen, underwent an MRI that fortunately showed no structural damage. However, further medical evaluation determined that the pain stemmed from carpal tunnel syndromeâa condition that affects the median nerve in the wrist, often causing numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand.
As part of his treatment, Swanson will receive a cortisone injection to help reduce inflammation, followed by a period of rest. While the Blue Jays have not provided a specific timetable for his return, the hope is that non-surgical treatment will allow him to resume pitching as soon as possible.
This setback is a tough blow for both Swanson and the Blue Jays, who were counting on him to be a key contributor out of the bullpen. Acquired from the Seattle Mariners in 2023, Swanson has been a reliable late-inning option, using his fastball and splitter to get big outs. Last season, he posted a 4.95 ERA with 65 strikeouts in 60 innings, showcasing his ability to handle high-leverage situations.
As the team moves forward in spring training, they will likely assess other bullpen options in case Swanson is unavailable at the start of the season. His absence would leave a noticeable gap in Torontoâs relief corps, making his recovery a major storyline to watch.
For now, both Swanson and the Blue Jays are hoping for a smooth recovery, but the uncertainty surrounding nerve-related injuries means his return to the mound remains unclear. Fans and teammates alike will be rooting for his swift comeback.
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