Tom Murphy's 2025 season is shelved after a spinal injury, and he alleges Giants medical care was malpractice. He says a back issue was misdiagnosed, tests followed late, and injections may have targeted the wrong disc, forcing a long rehab in New York. Murphy, who signed a 2-year deal in 2023, will head into free agency at season's end, with SF's public outreach to him notably absent, leaving fantasy managers uneasy about catcher depth and future upside.

With limited MLB action since signing, Murphy's absence creates a shake in the Giants' catching landscape. The mystery around his recovery timeline and the uncertain 2026 return window adds risk to drafts and waiver plans, as managers weigh the potential for a comeback against health history and organizational signals from San Francisco.

Mariners, Aroldis Chapman, and Xander Bogaerts headline a busy MLB update, with Eugenio Suárez and new infield drills hinting at growing Seattle chemistry. Chapman’s Boston extension tightens the closing role, while Bogaerts faces a 10-day IL fracture that could reshape San Diego’s infield balance as the playoff chase heats up.

MacKenzie Gore’s IL placement clouds Washington’s rotation outlook, Alek Manoah nears a return for Toronto, and Tom Murphy opened up about past medical issues affecting his season. Kona Takahashi remains a looming winter posting target for MLB teams. Fantasy managers should recalibrate risk and upside across these veteran players as rosters shift.

Tom Murphy, the San Francisco Giants' backup catcher, is set to receive an injection for a herniated disk in his back, which will keep him sidelined for at least two weeks. Manager Bob Melvin mentioned that Murphy's recovery involves a period of inactivity followed by strengthening exercises. Given the timing, there is a significant chance he won't be ready for opening day against Cincinnati on March 27.

This marks a concerning trend for Murphy, who played just 13 games last season before a knee injury forced an early end to his year. Over the past three seasons, he has consistently struggled with injuries, limiting his appearances and affecting the Giants' depth behind the plate.

With Murphy out, Gold Glove winner Patrick Bailey is set to take over as the starting catcher. Bailey had a respectable season last year, hitting .234 with eight homers and 46 RBIs across 121 games. The Giants also have Sam Huff and Max Stassi in camp, adding competition for the backup role should Murphy take longer to recover.