From 2019 to 2023, James Karinchak established himself as one of the premier strikeout pitchers in MLB, excelling in his full-time bullpen role. Despite some issues with command and consistency, he posted an impressive 3.10 career ERA with 253 strikeouts over 165.2 innings, demonstrating dominance at his peak.
However, Karinchak has been sidelined for the entire 2024 season so far. Shoulder issues, which first appeared in 2022, resurfaced in the spring, leading the team to place him on the 60-day injured list. Although he began working out at the Guardians’ spring training facility in Arizona in August, there was concern from team officials that he might not be ready to return this year.
While his status for the rest of the season remains uncertain, there is some encouraging news. According to Guardians reporter @JL_baseball, Karinchak has started a rehab assignment with Triple-A Columbus.
James Karinchak has joined Columbus on a rehab assignment
— Justin L. (@JL_Baseball) September 5, 2024
Given his long layoff, Karinchak will not only need to demonstrate his health but also reestablish his command and regain the form that made him a top reliever. This likely means several weeks in Triple-A before the Guardians make any decisions about his return.
If he can return to form, Karinchak could provide a significant boost to an already elite Guardians bullpen. However, the team will have to weigh whether they want to risk disrupting the strong chemistry they’ve built in the bullpen this season for the potential upside Karinchak brings.
