Cleveland Guardians reliever Andrew Walters has had a rough time with injuries ever since tearing his lat in 2025. He had to get under the knife, rest, and rehab for a long time before he was able to return to the minors this year.
This week, on Tuesday, it was revealed that Walters was placed on the 7-day injured list in Triple-A Columbus. The diagnosis was right elbow discomfort, and obviously, fans and those who are aware of his incredible talent when healthy became worried.
Tim Stebbins, who covers the Guardians on a daily basis, offered more clarity about the diagnosis. He had some good news to share amid the concerning situation.
“Guardians shut down Walters b/c of inflammation. He underwent an MRI that came back clean. IL stint allows him to build back up when ready. Hasn’t pitched since June 10,” Stebbins said.
Guardians shut down Walters b/c of inflammation. He underwent an MRI that came back clean. IL stint allows him to build back up when ready. Hasn't pitched since June 10. https://t.co/Z3rh9izTDe
— Tim Stebbins (@tim_stebbins) June 24, 2026
It’s not good to see Walters, who has lost his fair share of time in the last couple of years rehabbing, being placed on the injured list. However, the fact that his MRI came back clean means the world.
It probably means that he will return relatively soon, provided that the inflammation subsides at some point with rest and treatment. Still, there’s no official word about a potential timetable for his return.
The right-hander, taken 62nd overall in the 2023 MLB Draft, hasn’t pitched in MLB since his serious injury last year, but had been playing for Triple-A Columbus this year, hoping to earn a place on the Guardians’ bullpen.
Those plans will now have to wait, though.
With the Clippers, Walters had put up a 7.30 ERA in 12.1 innings of work, with 23 strikeouts but also 11 walks. Control and command had been a work in progress this year for him, and the Guardians would have loved to see more consistency before calling him up to join the MLB bullpen.
The hope is that he can return relatively soon, but you just never know with elbow injuries. It’s a week-to-week situation, so patience is required for those who want to watch Walters pitch in the majors this year.
When fully healthy, his 1.80 ERA in 10 innings as a major leaguer in regular-season play proves he has the talent to make a difference in the inconsistent Guardians bullpen.
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