Jordan Westburg injury update: Orioles infielder sidelined until at least May with partial UCL tear

For the Baltimore Orioles, the Jordan Westburg injury concerns intensified this week when the club announced that the infielder will be out for a minimum of the first month of the regular season. Westburg was diagnosed with a partial ulnar collateral ligament tear in his right elbow after feeling some discomfort while throwing during spring training.

Westburg is expected to be sidelined until May but will avoid surgery, according to team officials. The Orioles suspected it might have been an underlying issue that only reemerged in camp, hence his immediate imaging, and they are taking a cautious approach here, emphasizing that long-term health is a priority over a speedy return.

Over the next number of weeks, Westburg will receive a platelet-rich plasma injection in a conservative treatment plan aimed at healing and reducing inflammation. The Orioles are optimistic that this method will help him sidestep surgery, which would have endangered some, if not all, of his 2026 season. The team has not put a clear timetable on the injury other than hoping things will not keep Westburg sidelined through the month of May, but many players have been able to return without invasive procedures due to PRP treatments.

Though terrific when healthy, the 27-year-old’s ability to consistently stay on the field has been challenged by a series of injuries since reaching the majors. Westburg, a former All-Star, has emerged as a middle-of-the-order bat for Baltimore, supplying power, getting on base and showing versatility across the infield. The Orioles don’t plan to let him resume game action until they get a better sense of how much he can throw comfortably.

Not having Westburg is just the latest wrinkle in Baltimore’s early-season roster construction. Considering that the year is just getting started and the list of infielders already unavailable continues to pile up, the Orioles will likely lean on in-house options for either third base or second base as Westburg rehabs. A look at young players and depth pieces will be extended through May, allowing the coaching staff to assess long-term compatibility.

While the front office hasn’t shut the door on outside additions yet, it seems they would prefer to exercise patience, especially considering Westburg’s projected role down the line this season. The Orioles headed into spring training looking for some semblance of stability after last season’s roller coaster, but injuries are quickly challenging that plan. As Westburg embarks on this lengthy absence, how well the Orioles weather the storm could end up being a defining factor in the rest of the season.