Corbin Carroll's Hamate Fracture Sidelines Star for WBC, Threatens 2026 MLB Start
Arizona Diamondbacks fans have been dealt a significant blow this week as star outfielder Corbin Carroll sustained a broken hamate bone in his right hand. The injury occurred during live batting practice on February 10 at Salt River Fields, prompting the two-time All-Star to undergo surgery the very next day. This unfortunate development not only eliminates him from the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC) but also casts serious doubt on his readiness for the start of the 2026 Major League Baseball season.
Details of the Injury and Its Immediate Consequences
Corbin Carroll, renowned for his dynamic combination of speed and power, fractured the small, hook-shaped hamate bone in his wrist while taking swings during practice. Recovery from such hamate injuries generally spans four to eight weeks, but hand injuries often have lingering effects, potentially impairing grip strength and power output for an extended period.
This incident represents the third notable hamate fracture early in 2026, following similar injuries to New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor and Baltimore Orioles infielder Jackson Holliday. Historical cases, including Mike Trout's 2023 injury and Jose Ramirez's 2019 setback, demonstrate that these fractures can disrupt hitting mechanics for months, complicating recovery timelines.
The timing is particularly unfortunate for Carroll. He had been selected for Team USA's roster for the World Baseball Classic, scheduled to commence in March, where he was anticipated to strengthen the outfield alongside Aaron Judge, Byron Buxton, and Pete Crow-Armstrong. Team USA must now urgently find a replacement, with potential candidates like Wyatt Langford or others under consideration stepping into the void.
Implications for the Arizona Diamondbacks
For the Diamondbacks, this news is even more alarming as MLB Opening Day on March 26 approaches. While the standard recovery period might allow Carroll to return early in the season, the unpredictable nature of hamate injuries, especially their potential to diminish power, places his status in jeopardy. Carroll has been a cornerstone of Arizona's lineup since his breakout 2023 season.
Following a resurgent 2025 campaign where he posted a slash line of .259/.343/.541 with 31 home runs, 84 RBI, and 32 stolen bases, Carroll achieved career-best power numbers and secured sixth place in National League MVP voting. His durability has been remarkable, with 155 games played in 2023, 158 in 2024, and 143 in 2025.
Losing Carroll, even temporarily, is a setback for a team striving to build on recent playoff successes. The Diamondbacks will need to rely more heavily on their outfield depth during spring training and potentially the early regular season if Carroll begins on the injured list.
Future Outlook for Corbin Carroll and Team USA
Corbin Carroll's absence from the WBC deprives Team USA of a versatile outfielder celebrated for elite defense, exceptional base-stealing speed, and growing power at the plate. The US outfield remains formidable with Judge's power and Crow-Armstrong's defensive prowess, but replicating Carroll's all-around contributions will prove challenging.
As Carroll embarks on his recovery journey, the baseball world watches closely, hoping for a swift return that restores his impact on both the Diamondbacks and future international competitions.
