Florida Gators Baseball: Injury Report Update

As the Florida Gators baseball team continues its season, injuries have begun to take a toll. From long-term absences to players making their returns, here’s a comprehensive look at the latest injury news surrounding the team.

Frank Menendez Done for the Season

Sophomore pitcher Frank Menendez is the latest player to be ruled out for the rest of the season. It was announced Tuesday night that he is dealing with an elbow injury, likely requiring Tommy John surgery.

Menendez last pitched on March 5 against FAU, where he threw 1.2 innings, allowing zero hits and one unearned run while striking out three batters. In five appearances this season, he posted a 1-0 record with a 1.29 ERA across 7.0 innings. He struck out 12 batters while allowing only five hits and three walks. Losing Menendez will test Florida’s bullpen depth as the season progresses.

Cade Kurland’s Shoulder Setback

Junior second baseman Cade Kurland was another casualty of the Miami series, dislocating his shoulder while diving for a ground ball. Kurland returned during Tuesday night’s game against Jacksonville but head coach Kevin O’Sullivan pulled him from the lineup in his second at-bat after noticing something was off with his swing.

“I saw him grimace a little bit on the second swing, and there’s no sense of pushing it,” coach O’Sullivan said.

Despite the setback, O’Sullivan provided an encouraging update, stating that Kurland’s shoulder did not pop back out, a positive sign for his recovery. For now, the team will take it day by day. Kurland has been one of Florida’s top hitters this season, boasting a .353 batting average in 34 plate appearances. He has already racked up three home runs, 13 RBIs, nine runs, and 23 total bases. His potential absence for any extended period would be a significant blow to Florida’s offense.

Pierce Coppola to Resume Throwing

During the Miami series, O’Sullivan noticed something unusual and pulled starting pitcher Pierce Coppola in the third inning of his third start due to an injury. Initially believed to be a precautionary measure, Coppola’s absence has now lasted two weeks.

The good news for the Gators is that Coppola is set to begin throwing again next week. While there is no definitive timeline for his return, this marks a positive step in his recovery. The left-hander has been dominant on the mound this season, posting a 2-0 record with a stellar 0.63 WHIP over 12.2 innings. He has struck out an incredible 23 batters while allowing just four hits, two runs, and four walks. Coppola’s return will provide a crucial boost to the Florida rotation.

“We’re fortunate enough to get him back, that would be huge for us,” coach O’Sullivan said.