Ryan Mountcastle, the Orioles’ first baseman, has been out of the lineup and game action for the last four or more games due to a neck issue. Neck injuries are never a good indication, and losing playing time is even worse.
Again, this is MLB Spring Training, so extra precautions are constantly taken to avoid injuries. Still, there is concern when a neck injury leads to missing time, regardless of the time of year.
Mountcastle told MASN that his neck is feeling better and that he could return to the lineup after Monday’s off day. He supposedly felt his neck lock up while swinging.
Mountcastle has played a critical part in Baltimore’s rebound from its redevelopment. The first baseman had a good 2023 MLB season, slashing.270/.328/.452 with 18 home homers in 115 games.
The Florida native is entering his sixth season in the Majors and expects to play a key role in the Orioles’ sustained success in the American League East.
After a highly successful offseason, second only to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Baltimore should be regarded as a serious World Series contender.
With the arrival of Corbin Burnes in the winter’s most significant trade and closer Craig Kimbrel, all eyes are on the Orioles to see what this youthful team is capable of.
