Fantasy Baseball Injury Report: Extreme Heat’s Effect on Players

MLB players are in a constant battle with Mother Nature. Rain and lightning can delay or postpone games, while wind can influence the trajectory of a baseball in flight. Extreme heat is a current issue, as a recent heat wave sent scorching temperatures across the league. Exposure to high temperatures can make an athlete vulnerable to a variety of disorders classified as heat illness. The range of heat-related illnesses includes more mild problems like cramping and more dangerous conditions like heat exhaustion or heat stroke. 

Twins outfielder Max Kepler was removed from Sunday's game in Arlington, Texas due to what the team deemed "heat illness." The temperature at the start of the game was 95 degrees and eventually hit triple digits. Even worse, the humidity in the area likely increased the temperature on the field. Kepler's heat illness was likely on the low-end of the spectrum, and Minnesota has said he is recuperating nicely. Fortunately, the Twins return to the more comfortable climate of Minneapolis and Target Field for Monday's game where temperatures are projected to be in the low 80s. It wouldn't be surprising to see Kepler get an extra day off to completely recover, but he should be fine moving forward.

Bryce Harper is another player feeling the heat as he was removed after the fifth inning of Sunday's loss to the Padres. Harper reported blurry vision and was later treated for dehydration. The Phillies outfielder was feeling better after receiving fluids via an IV treatment and should be considered day-to-day for now. Monday's scheduled off day should allow Harper to return Tuesday against the Red Sox and he should further benefit from another scheduled off day on Thursday.

Chris Sale

There is a growing fear that the seven-time All-Star has sustained a significant injury to his throwing elbow. Sale was placed on the injured list with what has been deemed left elbow inflammation. An MRI has been performed, and the Red Sox will now recruit renowned orthopedic Dr. James Andrews for further evaluation. The somber tone the team has taken with regards to the injury is a strong hint that this injury will likely end his season and could have long-standing ramifications. Fantasy owners will want to wait for the final diagnosis before making a roster move but should start scanning the waiver wire for potential long-term replacements.

Check Swings

Nelson Cruz: It seems likely the Twins activate their All-Star designated hitter prior to Monday's game against the White Sox. Cruz has missed time after aggravating a wrist strain he sustained earlier in the season. The slugger managed to produce after the first injury and was on a tear in the weeks prior to the flare up. It's hard to imagine he will pick up right where he left off but Cruz should still be capable of putting up fantasy friendly numbers and is worth slotting into your lineup.

Joey Gallo: The hard-hitting Ranger has begun swinging a bat but is unlikely to return for at least another month. Gallo is recovering from surgery to address a fractured hamate in his left wrist. Other players to suffer this type of injury have displayed an initial dip in power upon their return, suggesting Gallo will not carry the same value when he is eventually activated.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr.: The Blue Jays outfielder suffered a left knee injury over the weekend and did not play Sunday. The injury is being described as left knee inflammation though Toronto will likely proceed with extreme caution. The rookie infielder missed an extended period of time last season with a patellar tendon strain on the same knee, and ensuring the recent injury is unrelated will be a must. The team hasn't provided a definitive timeline for his recovery but he seems likely to miss additional time this week.

Corey Kluber: The Indians ace suffered a setback unrelated to his previously fractured forearm. Kluber was lifted during the first inning of his weekend rehab start with Double-A Akron. The move was deemed as precautionary after the pitcher reported tightness in his abdominal region. Look for Cleveland to do their due diligence on the injury before allowing Kluber to return to the mound. Fantasy owners invested in Kluber will have to wait a little longer to see if he will have a chance at providing a late-season boost.

Yoan Moncada: The White Sox second baseman hasn't played since July 30 due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain. He spent the last three weeks rehabbing and recovering, and recently completed a three-game rehab assignment in which he finished 4-for-12. It looks as though Moncada will be activated Monday after receiving a rest day on Sunday. The team will likely limit his activity on the basepath early on and could opt for a rest day or two as they ease him back into the lineup. Hamstring strains, even the mild ones, are easily aggravated or re-injured, and the White Sox will want to take every opportunity to protect Moncada early on.

Max Scherzer: The Nationals are optimistic they will welcome Scherzer back to the mound on Thursday against the Pirates. The three-time Cy Young winner has been limited for more than a month due to lingering back and shoulder issues. However, the team feels he's ready to return and expects him to be on his regular routine moving forward. Fantasy owners should be cautiously optimistic and hope he has moved past his injuries.

Fernando Tatis Jr.: A back injury likely will end Tatis' phenomenal rookie season. The Padres do not expect him to suit up again this season due to back spasms. It sounds like the team is simply playing the long-game here and taking a conservative approach with his care. His value in yearly leagues plummets, but he remains a top keeper option in dynasty formats.

Joey Votto: The Reds veteran missed three straight games before being placed on the 10-day IL with a lower back strain. The move is retroactive to August 15, meaning Votto could be eligible to return as soon as next Sunday. However, he hasn't swung a bat since injuring his back and would be hard-pressed to be ready in time for the weekend. Look for him to sit for at least two weeks. Votto has endured a bit of a down year this season and struggled last season after missing time with an injury. As a result, those invested in Votto might want to consider a player with more upside to finish out the year.