So, the hiatus to the start of the MLB season comes with a great caveat. All of those players who have gotten injured, can heal. Like most of us who’ve already drafted (me too) are now stuck in limbo when the season will start. Will it be “mid-may” as promised? Later? My birthday is the best day in the MLB, the trade deadline. Has that been taken from me?! I wouldn’t mind a Christmas time World Series though. Seriously though, these are the Pitching Injuries to Watch for.

Max Scherzer, Washington Nationals

The 3-time Cy Young winner and reigning World Series champion claims that his injury is a fatigue thing that took him off the bump March 10th. I’m certainly worried about this, 2 of my dynasty leagues Mad Max is my ace. Additionally, if it is just fatigue, Max has over a month to recover now.

Chris Sale, Boston Red Sox

The BoSox need Chris Sale like we, the fantasy universe needs baseball. He’s the clear number 1 of Boston’s rotation has been sidelined with an elbow injury. While Sale’s new designation from manager Ron Roenicke is he will not throw until “absolutely pain free” this setback to the beginning of the season may be the best thing for veteran hurler. When the other option is Tommy John surgery, we are all hoping for the earlier outcome.

Justin Verlander, Houston Astros

Suffering from a mild right lateral strain, the Houston ace missing opening day would leave the AL West wide open for the early taking. If Verlander needs 4-6 weeks to recover it would be welcomed by the Astros since the season has now been slated to start “mid-may”. If Justin can’t be there for Opening Day, 36 year-old Zack Greinke would likely be the starter.

Mike Clevinger, Cleveland Indians

Indians fans had a treat this Saturday, they were able to see their ace on a baseball diamond. The 28-year-old participated in ex-teammate Trevor Bauer’s “sandlot game” in Phoenix. Back in February he was given 6-8 weeks until he could resume game activity. There’s plenty of time now for the knee to heal so he can be standing on the hill for the Indians when the season starts.

Cole Hamels, Atlanta Braves

First of all, that heading hurt me to write it. I love my Phillies and I didn’t think there would be a time where we’d be facing off against Hamels routinely. The Braves have a really young rotation, Hamels was brought in to ease the load of an entire season on these young arms. Now, he’s suffering from left shoulder inflation and nobody is sure how long he’s going to be out for. Let’s not forget something here, Atlanta brought in King Félix from Seattle as a non-roster signee. If Hamels is to miss some significant time the path for the King to stand on the mound in Atlanta has gotten very clear.

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