The 48-71 Cincinnati Reds have been out of the playoff race since April, when they started off with that ugly 3-22 record.
They improved somewhat, but were never really a threat to make the postseason.
A big part of the reason is obviously roster construction and decisions made by ownership, but injuries and people playing hurt affected the team performance, too.
Two of the biggest offensive stars are currently injured: first baseman Joey Votto and catcher Tyler Stephenson.
They already underwent surgery, and Dr. Timothy Kremchek, the Reds’ medical director, showed a picture of both stars rocking slings made by his staff.
“The Shoulder Team” rocking their matching @BeaconOrtho slings!@JoeyVotto @Tyler_Step22 pic.twitter.com/MPb27nwTLC
— Timothy Kremchek, MD (@TKremchekMD) August 21, 2022
Votto’s Injury Was More Serious Than Anticipated
On August 19, the Reds placed Votto on the 60-day injured list with a left rotator cuff tear.
He had surgery Friday to repair his shoulder and bicep.
He is expected back for 2023 spring training.
Stephenson, on the other hand, underwent surgery in the first week of August to repair his fractured right clavicle.
It was a stabilizing procedure.
He is, like Votto, done for the season, but is also expected to be fully recovered for 2023 spring training.
Stephenson was having a nice season at the plate, hitting .319 with 24 runs, six home runs, 35 RBI, a steal, and a .854 OPS.
Votto, on the other hand, struggled all year with COVID-19 early in the season and the shoulder injury.
He hit .205 with 31 runs, 11 homers, 41 RBI, and a .689 OPS.
If he is fully recovered next year, expect him to put much better numbers despite the mediocre supporting cast.
