Zack Wheeler's Comeback Looms as Brent Rooker's Injury Raises New Questions for MLB Teams

Nick Pivetta (elbow)

Pivetta exited Sunday’s start against the Rockies after three scoreless innings with right elbow stiffness. Anything elbow-related has the potential for an extended absence, but more news on the status of the 33-year-old right-hander should be known on Tuesday. Pivetta was bouncing back well from his six-run outing in his first start, giving up two runs over his next 13 innings. We’ll be on the lookout for an update on Tuesday.

Adley Rutschman (ankle)

Ryan Mountcastle (toe)

Rutschman was scratched from Saturday’s lineup against the Giants with ankle soreness and placed on the 10-day injured list with ankle inflammation. An MRI revealed no structural damage, so there’s a great chance we see Rutschman return either when first eligible or shortly after. Samuel Basallo steps in as the primary backstop, opening more DH duties for Dylan Beavers, who has started each of the last two games as designated hitter. Rutschman’s absence might’ve opened some playing time for Mountcastle, but he suffered a broken toe on his left foot on Saturday and is set to miss extended time on the 60-day injured list. The team acquired Christian Encarnacion-Strand on Monday from the Reds. He’ll likely join the Orioles in the coming days. The 26-year-old flashed some big power potential in 2023, hitting 13 homers in only 63 games, but has struggled to find playing time over the last two seasons. It’s a low-cost upside acquisition for the Orioles.