The Miami Marlins announced that infielder Connor Norby will start the season on the injured list with a strained oblique. Marlins’ manager Clayton McCullough broke the news to reporters on Tuesday that the young infielder will miss approximately four weeks with a Grade 1 left oblique strain. The 24-year-old reportedly suffered the injury while taking a swing during Grapefruit League play on Saturday evening.
Connor Norby Grade 1 left oblique strain.
He will start the season on the IL. #Marlins— Christina De Nicola (@CDeNicola13) March 25, 2025
Marlins Place Connor Norby on Injured List with Oblique Injury
Connor Norby, along with outfielder Kyle Stowers was acquired from the Orioles at last year’s trade deadline in exchange for left-hander Trevor Rogers. One of Baltimore’s top prospects, Norby played 36 games for the Fish over the final six weeks of the season. Splitting his time between second and third base, he hit seven home runs, drove in 17, and slashed .247/.315/.445 over 162 trips to the plate. Norby delivered a solid spring performance, hitting .255/.294/.404, and was expected to be the Marlins’ everyday third baseman. While the job should still be his to lose when he returns, his absence is a tough blow for Miami.
Outside of Sandy Alcántara’s return from Tommy John surgery, the rebuilding Marlins have little to look forward to in 2025. One of their best hitters, outfielder Jesús Sánchez, will miss at least the first two weeks with an oblique injury. Earlier today, MLB.com’s Christina De Nicola reported that with Norby sidelined, Graham Pauley will make the Opening Day roster. Pauley was part of the trade sending Tanner Scott to San Diego and is batting .269/.345/.653 this spring. Once a well-regarded prospect, he struggled in his debut last season, playing 13 games and going 4-for-32 with 15 strikeouts. Despite his offensive struggles, Pauley is one of Miami’s few third base options and could see a good amount of playing time in his absence. According to De Nicola, Eric Wagaman and Jonah Bride could also platoon at third base or as the designated hitter.
Main Photo Credits: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
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