CHICAGO — The outfielder for the Detroit Tigers, Riley Greene, feels robust in his legs after coming back from the injured list.
His swing has regained its power.
Having missed over three weeks due to a right hamstring strain, the 23-year-old recently arrived in Williamsport, Pa., where he suited up for the MLB Little League Classic and played on Sunday against the New York Yankees, marking his first game since late July.
“It was amazing to have the chance to be with those kids and spend time together,” Greene reflected on his moments with the Little League players. “They represent the future. I just answered their questions and enjoyed my time with them.”
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In Sunday’s game, which resulted in a 3-2 victory over the Yankees at Journey Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field, Greene ended with a performance of 0-for-4 and two strikeouts. Despite the statistics, what mattered most to him was how he felt on the field, particularly the state of his legs.
Prior to his injury, Greene experienced a rough series in late July, going 0-for-10 with six strikeouts across three games against the Cleveland Guardians before being placed on the injured list.
During those games, his swing seemed weak.
“In Cleveland, it felt like my lower body was not engaged, and I was relying solely on my upper body,” Greene explained. “I was making contact, but the results weren’t there. Now with my legs back under me and my hamstrings feeling improved, I can engage my legs properly and feel at ease.”
The journey back from the right hamstring strain proved to be more of a mental hurdle than a physical one. He participated in two games during his rehabilitation assignment with Triple-A Toledo.
“It was mainly about trusting the process,” Greene stated. “I was confident in the strength work I had done, and everything felt good. However, mentally, I was hesitant about repeating any mistakes, so ultimately, it was about having that mental trust.”
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In 2024, Greene, who is making his first All-Star appearance, has a batting average of .261, along with 17 home runs, 51 walks, and 111 strikeouts in 102 games during his third season in Major League Baseball. He stands out as the Tigers’ top position player.
The Tigers will keep a close eye on Greene’s workload.
“We’ll monitor his performance closely,” said manager A.J. Hinch. “He has completed his rehabilitation and is set to play. I believe it will require a few games for him to fully trust his body and get acclimated. … We will gradually integrate him back into the lineup. … We are mindful of his return to the majors from a physical perspective, but the hamstring has healed, and he is ready to compete.”
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Justyn-Henry Malloy Sent Down
Following the Little League Classic, the Tigers have sent designated hitter Justyn-Henry Malloy to Triple-A Toledo, thereby returning the active roster to 26 players.
The Tigers aim for Malloy, who is an average defender at best, to further develop his skills in the corner outfield positions.
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“I didn’t want him to feel he had made any mistakes,” Hinch remarked. “He produced some excellent at-bats. … It’s essential that he not remain solely as a bench player or designated hitter. We’ll be getting him ample opportunities in the outfield.”
MORE ABOUT HIM: Justyn-Henry Malloy brings patience both at the plate and in his demeanor to the Tigers.
At 24 years old, Malloy has served as the designated hitter in 37 out of his 57 games with the Tigers. He has played only 20 games in left field, with just 14 of these coming in his first 51 appearances.
The Tigers are considering recalling Malloy, who has a batting average of .217 and a .698 OPS, once rosters expand on September 1 from 26 to 28 players.
“We all hope he returns sooner rather than later,” Hinch expressed. “The roster expansion could provide an opportunity. Of course, we can’t guarantee anything. The work he puts in between now and then needs to happen not only in the batter’s box but also in both outfield corners.”
Reese Olson, Wenceel Pérez on track to return
The Tigers are preparing for the return of right-hander Reese Olson and outfielder Wenceel Pérez — both currently sidelined due to injuries — for the remainder of the 2024 MLB season, despite the fact that only 40 days (and 37 games) are left.
Olson currently boasts a 3.23 ERA over 103 innings across 19 starts but has been out of action since July 21 due to a right shoulder strain. Pérez has been sidelined since August 10 with a left oblique strain.
“We want them to have plenty of baseball left in September,” Hinch noted. “They have a lot of work ahead of them to achieve that. Casey (Mize) is currently in rehab and will continue to be extended until he is ready to return (from a left hamstring strain). But all three of those players share that goal.”
We’ve informed them that there remains work to be done on the field. Should anything change, we will update them accordingly.
This week, both players are making notable progress in their recovery.
Olson, at 25 years old, is set to throw a bullpen session on Wednesday at Wrigley Field, while Pérez, who is 24, is anticipated to initiate a hitting progression within the next three days.
“We haven’t lost hope that they might still see additional playing time in the major leagues,” Hinch stated.
Contact Evan Petzold at epetzold@freepress.com or follow him @EvanPetzold.
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Riley Greene Returns Strong: Detroit Tigers Outfielder Shines in MLB Little League Classic After Injury
The Comeback of Riley Greene
After a challenging period on the sidelines due to an injury, Riley Greene has made a spectacular return to the field, showcasing his skills as an essential player for the Detroit Tigers. The MLB Little League Classic provided the perfect backdrop for Greene to demonstrate his talent and resilience, leaving fans and analysts excited about his future performance.
Understanding Riley Greene’s Injury
Riley Greene suffered a significant injury that temporarily sidelined him, raising concerns about his ability to contribute effectively to the Tigers’ lineup. Understanding the details of Greene’s injury is crucial for fans and sports analysts alike:
- Type of Injury: Greene sustained a fractured foot, which kept him off the field for several weeks.
- Impact: The injury not only affected Greene physically but also had implications for the team’s overall performance during his absence.
- Rehabilitation: Greene underwent a comprehensive rehabilitation program, focusing on strengthening and conditioning to ensure a successful return.
Greene’s Performance in the MLB Little League Classic
The MLB Little League Classic was a standout moment for Riley Greene, marking his return to major league action with a bang. Here are some highlights of his performance during the game:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| At Bats | 4 |
| Hits | 2 |
| Home Runs | 1 |
| RBIs | 3 |
| Walks | 1 |
His performance during the game was not only a testament to his talent but also to his determination and mental fortitude, which are vital traits for any athlete returning from injury.
Benefits of Greene’s Return for the Detroit Tigers
Riley Greene’s return has several benefits for the Detroit Tigers, impacting both the team dynamics and their performance in the league:
- Offensive Boost: Greene’s batting prowess adds depth to the Tigers’ lineup, making them more competitive against their opponents.
- Defensive Strength: As an outfielder, Greene enhances the team’s defense, reducing the number of runs scored by opposing teams.
- Mental Motivation: His comeback can inspire teammates, fostering a culture of resilience and teamwork.
- Fan Engagement: Greene’s return is likely to attract more fans to the games, enhancing the overall atmosphere at the ballpark.
Practical Tips for Athletes Returning from Injury
For athletes like Riley Greene, returning from injury can be daunting. Here are some practical tips that can help in the recovery process:
- Follow a Structured Rehabilitation Program: Collaborate with medical professionals to develop a tailored rehabilitation plan.
- Gradual Return: Ease back into the sport; avoid rushing the return to full activity.
- Mental Health Matters: Stay positive and focus on mental training; visualization techniques can be beneficial.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any signs of pain or discomfort and adjust your training accordingly.
Case Studies of Successful Athlete Comebacks
Riley Greene is not alone in his remarkable comeback journey. Many professional athletes have faced similar challenges and emerged stronger. Here are notable case studies:
| Athlete | Injury | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Tom Brady | ACL Tear | Multiple Super Bowl Wins |
| Serena Williams | Foot Injury | Grand Slam Titles |
| Stephen Curry | Wrist Fracture | NBA Championships |
These athletes exemplify how dedication, hard work, and the right support system can lead to a successful return from injury, providing inspiration for Riley Greene and others in similar situations.
Fans’ Reactions to Greene’s Return
The excitement surrounding Riley Greene’s return to the field has generated significant buzz among fans and analysts. Here are some common sentiments expressed by fans:
- Excitement: Many fans expressed their joy on social media, celebrating Greene’s return as a pivotal moment for the team.
- Optimism: Fans are optimistic about the Tigers’ chances this season, especially with Greene back in the lineup.
- Support: Support for Greene has been evident, with fans showing their encouragement through chants and signs during games.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Greene and the Tigers?
As Riley Greene continues to regain his form, the Detroit Tigers are poised for an exciting remainder of the season. Here are some key points to consider:
- Upcoming Games: Greene’s performance in the upcoming games will be crucial for the team’s momentum.
- Playoff Aspirations: With Greene back, the Tigers’ chances of making a playoff run have improved significantly.
- Long-term Health: The organization will need to monitor Greene’s health to ensure his longevity in the game.
Riley Greene’s journey back to the field is a powerful reminder of the determination and resilience that define professional athletes. As he continues to shine, both he and the Detroit Tigers aim to make a significant impact in the MLB this season.
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