Atlanta Braves All-Star second baseman told Justin Toscano that he experienced shoulder discomfort over the last two seasons, but in typical Ozzie Albies’ style, he said everyone plays through pain.
"“. . . You’re never 100%. You always have to sacrifice yourself out there and be good for your teammates because you don’t want to let anybody down the same way they (don’t let you down).”"
While Albies downplays the amount of pain he experienced, there’s always discomfort once the should becomes inflamed. A shoulder impingement is typically a bone spur pressing against the tendons or bursa sac – the body’s cushion between bone from muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
"With impingement syndrome, pain is persistent and affects everyday activities. Motions such as reaching up behind the back or reaching up overhead . . . may cause pain. Over time (it) can lead to inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons (tendinitis) and bursa (bursitis). If not treated appropriately, the rotator cuff tendons can start to thin and tear. (WebMD)"
Albies' shoulder likely contributed to his drop-off at the plate in 2021 and the first half of 2022. After a .295/.352/.500/.852 in 2019, he batted only .256/.306/.438/.772 combined in 2021-2022.
He told Toscano he’s able to do normal baseball activities, and he’s a little behind in his build-up to the season but expects to be ready on March 30. Until then, we will just have to see how Ozzie looks when he takes the field and how much playing time he gets in spring training.
That’s a Wrap
The Atlanta Braves need Albies at his best, he’s the heartbeat of the team and the guy I expect to lead the infield this year.
I’ve had multiple impingements on both shoulders, and it takes a while to bounce back. Ozzie’s younger, fitter, and has top-of-the-line medical and rehab staff helping him, but don’t be surprised if it takes a while for his power to return consistently.