MLB Injury Update: Anthony Rizzo sidelined for a month with arm fracture and TJ Friedl’s Day-to-Day Status - June 18

As the MLB season continues to push into summer, a number of clubs have received some difficult injury updates regarding some of their stars. Most of the injury-related news that teams received today has potentially dramatic consequences for the clubs' plans for the season moving forward.

MLB Injury Updates for June 18

Anthony Rizzo

The New York Yankees will be without former All-Star first baseman Anthony Rizzo for the next four to six weeks after suffering an arm injury. The veteran infielder suffered a fracture to the radial neck of his right arm, which will keep him out of the potent Yankees lineup for some time.

"Anthony Rizzo left the game after this collision at first base" - @espn

Ty France

The Seattle Mariners have gained some reinforcements as the club activated veteran first baseman Ty France from the 10-day IL. France was sidelined for the 10-day minimum with a heel fracture. Since he missed the minimum amount of time, he was able to avoid a minor-league rehab assignment and join the MLB lineup.

TJ Friedl

Cincinnati Reds outfielder TJ Friedl has been listed as day-to-day after exiting Monday's action against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Friedl suffered a hamstring injury, however, it appears that he avoided a major setback. According to Reds manager David Bell, Friedl's hamstring is "just tight," which suggests that he could be back in the lineup sooner rather than later.

Mike Cleavinger

The Chicago White Sox have announced that veteran starting pitcher Mike Cleavinger will begin a minor-league rehab assignment on Tuesday. Cleavinger has been on the IL since May 28 with right elbow inflammation and is expected to make at least two rehab starts before rejoining the MLB rotation.

Justin Verlander

It's been a year to forget for the Houston Astros pitching rotation which has been ravaged by injuries this season. One of those pitchers is Justin Verlander, who is dealing with some neck discomfort. According to Astros manager Joe Espada, Verlander's neck is progressing "slower than expected." It remains to be seen if he can avoid an IL stint or he can simply re-enter the MLB rotation.

"Astros manager Joe Espada tells @SportsMT that Justin Verlander’s progress “is slower than we expected.” Thursday’s starter against the White Sox is still TBA" - @Chandler_Rome

Kerry Carpenter

It may be some time before we see Detroit Tigers outfielder Kerry Carpenter in the lineup again. The 26-year-old has yet to resume baseball activities and could continue to be sidelined for the foreseeable future. Carpenter was diagnosed with a lumbar spine stress fracture at the end of May and it appears that he is still a few weeks away from returning to the lineup.