Orioles' Colton Cowser Sidelined 6-8 Weeks with Broken Thumb

The injury occurred in the seventh inning of Sunday's 3-1 loss in Toronto when Cowser made an aggressive, headfirst slide attempting to beat out a hit at first base. Manager Brandon Hyde described the thumb bending 'all the way back' and noted that while headfirst slides carry risk, it was an 'instinctual baseball play.'

This isn't Cowser's first hand injury; he also fractured his left hand during the AL Wild Card Series loss last October. Despite a slow start to the 2025 season (2-for-16), his power and performance in 2024 make his absence significant.

The Orioles have recalled switch-hitting outfielder Dylan Carlson, though his roster spot might be temporary depending on Gunnar Henderson's return timeline. More immediately, former top prospect Heston Kjerstad is expected to receive increased playing time and started Monday's home opener.

While injuries can impact morale, the Orioles demonstrated resilience last season, overcoming IL stints for multiple key players en route to a second consecutive postseason appearance. Teammates like Cedric Mullins and Ryan O'Hearn acknowledged the setback but emphasized the team's need to 'keep rolling.'

He is expected to miss at least 6-8 weeks with a fractured left thumb.

He slid headfirst into first base during Sunday's game against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Heston Kjerstad is expected to get more starts, and Dylan Carlson has been recalled from Triple-A.

This is undoubtedly a setback for the Orioles. How will the team cope with Cowser's absence in the coming weeks? Let us know your thoughts!

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