There have been a lot of headlines in the offseason surrounding star players, but what about the star players that are coming back from serious injuries that kept them off the field for most of, if not all of last season? These guys could be the difference between playoff baseball or not for their respective teams.
Ever since he was traded to the Mets prior to the 2008 season, Johan Santana has dipped off the radar due to a multitude of injuries, but this year is different. Santana says he’s healthier than he’s been in a long time. Watching him early this season, you wouldn’t even know he missed a whole season. If he can stay healthy, he should return to the ace he was prior to shoulder problems and Santana could definitely be a sleeper for the National League’s Cy Young award.
Angels designated hitter Kendrys Morales will come back from one of the most bizarre injuries baseball has ever seen. In May 2010, Morales hit a walk-off grand slam against the Seattle Mariners. As he leapt into a crowd of teammates around home plate, Morales landed awkwardly and dislocated his ankle. After a year and a half and multiple surgeries, Morales returns to provide protection batting behind newly acquired slugger Albert Pujols.
Defending champion St. Louis gets ace Adam Wainwright back from Tommy John surgery as well. This could prove to be huge for the Cards chances at repeating their World Series run considering last years ace, Chris Carpenter, went down in spring training with severe neck problems and their offense is nowhere near last season’s form due to the loss of Albert Pujols.
The kid who could become the face of baseball just a short time from now, Stephen Strasburg, returns from Tommy John surgery for the Washington Nationals. Looking for his first full season in the majors, Strasburg has the stuff to attract even the casual fan to the ballpark wherever the team goes. His fastball approaches 100 mph, and his curveball and changeup come in nearly 20 mph slower. He’s a perfect game waiting to happen. It’s only a matter of time.