Cincinnati Reds utility player Spencer Steer has recently made significant progress in his recovery from a right shoulder injury, offering optimism for his availability on Opening Day. On Wednesday, Steer took a pivotal step by participating in batting practice, marking his first swings since receiving a cortisone shot on March 1. This development is encouraging for both Steer and the Reds as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Steer’s shoulder issues trace back to the 2024 season, during which he played through discomfort, appearing in 158 games. Despite the pain, he delivered a solid performance, leading the team with 92 RBIs, hitting 20 home runs, and maintaining a .225 batting average with a .721 OPS. The persistent nature of his shoulder problem led to a cortisone injection earlier this month, aiming to alleviate the discomfort and facilitate a smoother recovery process.
Following the injection, Steer had been limited in his activities, refraining from both throwing and hitting to allow his shoulder adequate time to heal. The recent batting practice session indicates a positive response to the treatment. However, Steer has yet to resume throwing, which remains a crucial aspect of his rehabilitation. He acknowledged the unpredictable nature of muscle function recovery, stating, “There’s no timeline on those things. It’s just basically how quickly your body picks it up and you figure it out.”
Reds manager Terry Francona has expressed cautious optimism regarding Steer’s progress. He emphasized the importance of the player’s health over rushing him back for Opening Day, stating, “We just have to do the right thing. We want his shoulder to tell us that – not Opening Day.” Francona’s approach underscores the team’s commitment to Steer’s long-term well-being, even if it means a delayed start to his season.
The Reds are keenly aware of Steer’s value, given his versatility in playing both infield and outfield positions. His potential absence at the start of the season would necessitate adjustments in the lineup. Consequently, the team’s medical and coaching staff are closely monitoring his rehabilitation, ensuring that each step is carefully evaluated to prevent setbacks.
As of now, Steer’s participation in batting practice is a promising sign, but his ability to throw without discomfort will be a determining factor in his readiness for Opening Day. Both Steer and the Reds are hopeful, yet they remain committed to a recovery plan that prioritizes his health and performance for the entirety of the season. The coming days will be critical in assessing his progress and making informed decisions about his role as the season commences.
In summary, while Spencer Steer’s recent advancements in injury recovery are encouraging, a cautious approach is being maintained. The Reds are balancing the desire to have him in the Opening Day lineup with the necessity of ensuring his full recovery, aiming for his sustained contribution throughout the season.
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