2026 Injury Report: Updates on Diaz, Herrera, Hodge

Injuries are beginning to pile up for several teams. The Rays are down another bat in the interim, while the Cubs confirmed that two pitchers won’t be available for the start of the 2026 season. However, the Diamondbacks had good news regarding one of their injured pitchers.

Diaz dealing with sore hand

Rays infielder Yandy Diaz has not played in several days. And per the team, Diaz is nursing a sore left hand (h/t Tampa Bay Times).

Team manager Kevin Cash indicated that Diaz is fine and should get a few more days off before a return to action.

Diaz is one of several notable bats dealing with injury for the Rays. Outfielder Chandler Simpson is still nursing a hamstring injury.

Cubs will start Hodge & Wicks on IL

The Cubs confirmed on March 8 that two pitchers, reliever Porter Hodge and starter/reliever Jordan Wicks, will begin the 2026 season on the IL.

Hodge was diagnosed with a right flexor tendon strain and will be shut down for at least two weeks.

As for Wicks, he is dealing with a nerve issue in his left arm.

Kelly throws live BP

Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly took a positive step forward on March 8 after missing time thanks to a back injury. The right-hander threw a live batting practice session in Arizona.

Per MLB.com, Kelly is scheduled to throw another one this week before potentially starting later on in Cactus League action.

Other notes

Padres outfielder Ramon Laureano was scratched due to general fatigue (h/t San Diego Union-Tribune).

Cardinals catcher/DH Ivan Herrera was scratched from action on March 8 due to knee inflammation.

Diamondbacks and Dominican Republic shortstop Geraldo Perdomo missed the game on March 8 against the Netherlands due to illness.

Rangers pitcher Jordan Montgomery (Tommy John surgery recovery) was officially placed on the 60-day IL.