Springs set to rejoin A’s rotation, but injured list remains full

The Athletics could be getting a much-needed addition to their starting rotation this week, as left-hander Jeffrey Springs is expected to return from the injured list Wednesday against the Kansas City Royals.

Springs has been sidelined with right hip discomfort, but the veteran lefty is scheduled to rejoin the Athletics’ rotation during their series in Kansas City.

His return comes at a time when the Athletics desperately need stability on the mound as they attempt to navigate the final stretch of a disappointing 2026 season.

Jeffrey Springs #59 of the A’s delivers a pitch against the St. Louis Cardinals in the first inning at Busch Stadium on September 3, 2025 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)

Springs is 3-11 with a 6.17 ERA this season, making his return something of a gamble for an Athletics team that has struggled throughout the year. The club enters Tuesday at 49-76 and is on pace to miss the playoffs for a sixth consecutive season. The Athletics are also trending toward their worst season from a win-loss standpoint since 2023.

Still, getting Springs back could provide the Athletics with another experienced arm for a rotation that has dealt with a significant number of injuries.

The Athletics provided several other injury updates Tuesday, including progress from outfielder Denzel Clarke. Clarke, who is dealing with a left hamstring strain, will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Las Vegas on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, right-hander Luis Severino continues to progress through a throwing program while recovering from a right shoulder strain.

The Athletics also provided updates on several players whose seasons are already over. Right-hander Gunnar Hoglund remains out for the year after undergoing left hip surgery in May. Right-hander Mark Leiter Jr. is also done for the season after undergoing surgery to repair a right hip labral tear.

MESA, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 20: Brent Rooker #25 of the Athletics poses for a portrait during photo day at HoHoKam Stadium on February 20, 2026 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)

Brent Rooker underwent surgery July 17 to debride an articular cartilage tear in his left knee and remove loose bodies and will not return this season. Justin Sterner underwent surgery Aug. 13 to debride articular cartilage in his right knee and is likewise out for the remainder of 2026.

Brooks Kriske has also opted for surgery after experiencing increased discomfort following his most recent live bullpen session. A repeat MRI showed continued pathology in his right shoulder, though the timing of the procedure has yet to be determined.

The Athletics are also monitoring several other players. Nick Kurtz has not resumed baseball activities after receiving a PRP injection Aug. 4 for a right thumb injury, while Shea Langeliers continues his rehabilitation in Sacramento after undergoing right knee surgery July 28.

Tyler Soderstrom is set to consult with hip specialists after experiencing increased soreness from his previous left hip injury. Joshua Kuroda-Grauer has begun light, non-impact activities following surgery to repair a ruptured testicle.

José Suarez, meanwhile, is playing catch as he works toward throwing a bullpen session.

For an Athletics club already looking toward the future, Springs’ return provides another opportunity to evaluate the rotation while the team plays out the final weeks of a difficult season.

More Athletics content from Sactown Sports

• Athletics part ways with GM David Forst following 11-year partnership

Upcoming Athletics 2026 Schedule

• Monday, August 17th – Thursday, August 20th – @ Kansas City Royals
• Friday, August 21st – Sunday, August 23rd – @ Houston Astros

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