After elbow reconstruction surgery, the Cleveland Guardians face the 2025 season opener sans their star utility man, David Fry. As confirmed by the team yesterday, Fry was treated for a "chronically insufficient" ulnar collateral ligament, accompanied by a flexor strain in his right elbow. Renowned surgeon Dr. Keith Meister conducted the procedure last week in Dallas, Texas, as reported by Akron Beacon Journal.
Complications from the end of the 2024 season led to Fry experiencing notable discomfort, leading to the surgery on October 30th post-evaluation by Dr. Meister and Cleveland Guardians' physicians, per a team statement cited by FOX8. The recovery timeline puts Fry back in the batter's box in approximately 6 to 8 months. It estimates a return to the field in about 12 months, primarily restricting him to designated hitter duties for the foreseeable future.
As a critical component of the Guardians' postseason lineup, Fry's absence is felt more keenly. He was instrumental in extending the division series with his 2-run home run in Detroit and his pivotal walk-off in the American League Championship Series, recounted by Cleveland19. Even with a six-month recovery, Fry's return during the regular season would necessitate additional time for conditioning, considering he'll miss spring training. This circumstance could push his effective comeback to the year's second half.
Additional roster moves for the Guardians include outfielder Myles Straw accepting an assignment to Triple-A Columbus, RHP James Karinchak, and LHP Sam Hentges being activated from the 60-day Injured List—the latter was granted free agency. Trevor Stephan, another right-handed pitcher, also returned to the 40-man roster, now at 38 players, indicating some wiggle room for potential offseason adjustments.
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