Kim’s Recovery Update
Great news! Rays shortstop Ha-Seong Kim is making remarkable progress in his recovery from shoulder surgery. According to team officials, his recent checkup revealed he’s “doing exceptionally well” and is actually ahead of schedule in some areas.
Return Timeline Adjusted
However, to ensure Kim is completely ready for the demands of regular shortstop play, the timeline for his return has shifted from May to a new estimate of mid-June to mid-July.
Rays manager Kevin Cash shared, “He’s still a ways away. It was a major surgery, a big procedure. We’re excited about how he feels, but playing shortstop every day is a heavy load. We need to pace him and let the rehab process unfold.”
Emphasis on Careful Recovery
Baseball operations president Erik Neander stressed the importance of being “on the careful side” to ensure Kim is not just ready to play, but also capable of making crucial impact plays. He mentioned, “You can’t shortcut biology.” They are also allowing time for an extended prep and rehab period akin to a full six-week spring training.
Potential Early Return Scenarios
Neander hinted that there might be a chance for Kim to return sooner if he were to take on a less demanding role, like playing second base or serving as a designated hitter. However, Cash clarified that such discussions would take place closer to Kim’s potential game action, affirming, “We see him as our future shortstop.”
Kim, a former Padres player from 2021-24, underwent labrum repair surgery on October 10 in Los Angeles and signed a two-year contract with the Rays worth $29 million in late January. The deal includes an opt-out after this season.
Injury Updates
- Outfielder Jake Mangum is set to be out for nearly a month due to a left groin strain that he sustained. Neander mentioned the usual recovery time is between two to four weeks, and they expect Mangum, who relies on speed, to be on the longer side.
- Outfielders Johnny DeLuca and Josh Lowe are both improving and should be back in action around mid-May, with no setbacks reported. Outfielder Richie Palacios is aiming for a return in early June.
- Starting pitcher Shane McClanahan, who has been out due to a nerve issue in his triceps, has begun light throwing and is showing improvement, but there is currently no timeline for his return.
Neander remarked, “It’s a slow and steady process, which is not what any of us want. There have been no setbacks, but we’re reliant on the nerve’s healing capabilities, and progress is being made.”
Conclusion
Ha-Seong Kim is on the right path to recovery, and while the timeframe for his return may be longer than initially anticipated, the team is putting his health first. Meanwhile, several other players are expected to rejoin the lineup soon.
FAQs
When will Kim return to play?
Kim is expected to return between mid-June and mid-July, depending on his recovery progress.
What other injuries are affecting the team?
Outfielders Jake Mangum, Johnny DeLuca, and Josh Lowe are currently dealing with injuries, but all are on track to return in the coming weeks.
How is Kim’s surgery recovery going?
His recovery is going well, with signs of him being ahead of schedule. However, the team is taking a cautious approach to ensure he is fully ready.
