How a baseball star’s career was nearly derailed by his own gloves
In short: For years, Alex Verdugo endured blistering, bleeding, and scabbing pain in his hands while playing at the highest level of professional baseball. It wasn't a sports injury or a lack of grit; it was a hidden chemical reaction occurring right inside his equipment.
Alex Verdugo's professional journey is marked by high-level versatility and a nomadic path through some of baseball's most storied franchises. Selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the second round of the 2014 MLB draft, Verdugo bypassed college to enter the minors, where he quickly earned all-star honors. He eventually debuted in the majors in 2017, later moving through the organizations of the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Atlanta Braves.
However, a significant physical hurdle emerged during the 2021 season. While playing for the Red Sox, Verdugo began experiencing severe skin issues, including blistering and bleeding in his hands. This persistent pain and irritation lasted for years, threatening his performance and comfort on the field. It wasn't until the 2024 season, while playing for the Yankees, that Verdugo underwent an allergy test to find the root cause.
The results were surprising: Verdugo was allergic to the cobalt and chromate found in his batting gloves. This discovery highlights a rare instance where a player's primary tool for success became a source of physical distress. Despite this, Verdugo continued to play through the 2024 season, eventually becoming the final out of the World Series before entering free agency and moving on to new chapters in his career.
Verdugo's career also reflects a deep connection to his heritage, having represented the Mexican national team in the 2017 and 2023 World Baseball Classics. His journey from a Tucson high school to the pinnacle of the sport serves as a testament to both athletic perseverance and the unexpected biological hurdles athletes face.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Alex Verdugo
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