5 MLB players who overcame major injuries to make an impact in 2024 ft. Fernando Tatis Jr.

It was an MLB season to remember, from record-breaking performances to iconic playoff moments. While fans were treated to top-tier entertainment and moments, it looked like 2024 was going to be defined by injuries.

In the first half of the season, a number of superstar pitchers went down with season-ending injuries. Players like Spencer Strider, Ronald Acuna Jr. and Shane Bieber saw their years come to an end before they really even started.

Although injuries were a cause for concern early, there were plenty of stars who overcame ailments to help shape the year, with some even going on to win it all. Advancements in recovery and surgeries have dramatically changed injury timelines, allowing stars to get back on the field sooner rather than later.

Here's a closer look at 5 MLB players who overcame injuries to make a significant impact in 2024

#1, Fernando Tatis Jr.

Despite enduring an injury-plagued 2024 campaign, Fernando Tatis Jr. proved why he's considered one of the best players in baseball. The San Diego Padres superstar was electric to open the season before suffering a femoral stress reaction in his right quad. The injury limited him to only 102 games in 2024, yet he still managed to slug 21 home runs to help the Friars return to the postseason.

#2, Gerrit Cole

At the beginning of spring training, it looked like Gerrit Cole was going to be another superstar pitcher to have his season cut short with a severe injury. The former Cy Young Award winner luckily avoided a serious UCL injury in his throwing arm, instead being diagnosed with inflammation and edema in his elbow.

Cole returned to the New York Yankees' rotation and made his 2024 season debut on June 19. While Cole struggled coming off of his injury, he quickly reminded MLB fans why he is one of the best pitchers in the world, helping the Yankees reach their first World Series since 2009.

#3, Mookie Betts

Mookie Betts continues to show why he's one of MLB's most likable and talented players. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar looked like a true NL MVP candidate at the start of 2024. However, the eight-time All-Star suffered a broken hand after being hit by a pitch. Even though he missed nearly two months, Betts returned to the lineup and helped guide the Dodgers to their 8th World Series title.

#4, Carlos Correa

It was a bit of a disappointing season for the Minnesota Twins as the club entered the year projected to win the division. Instead, they ended up missing the postseason altogether. Nevertheless, it was a tremendous season for star Carlos Correa, who posted his best season in years, earning the third All-Star selection.

What makes all of this more impressive is the fact that Correa was limited to only 86 games in 2024 as the star missed 51 games with plantar fasciitis in his right foot. Even though Correa missed significant time, he proved once again why he's among the best shortstops in MLB.

#5, Shohei Ohtani

What else is there to say about Shohei Ohtani? The three-time MVP delivered one of the best seasons in history, becoming the first player in history to record 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a season. Even though this is impressive enough, Ohtani accomplished all of this while recovering from a UCL surgery he underwent last offseason. The kid just knows how to play baseball.