Alek Thomas Nears Return to Diamondbacks After Injury Setback

Just four games into the 2024 season, Alek Thomas was placed on the 10-day injured list due to a strained left hamstring. Nearly 20 days later, Thomas is on the brink of a comeback.

On Friday, Thomas engaged in light jogging and participated in simulated at-bats, displaying encouraging signs of recovery.

He is expected to rejoin the D-backs’ lineup by the end of April or early May.

Discussing his rehabilitation process ahead of his NLCS Game 6 home run T-shirt giveaway, Thomas shared the initial mental challenges he faced: “In the beginning it was kind of hard. You know, mentally I was kind of upset and was battling with trying to stay positive.”

Thomas sought support from D-backs’ reliever Paul Sewald, who is also out on the injured list. He expressed gratitude for Sewald’s leadership, saying “I think he’s (Sewald) helped, and all the other guys there too.”

The biggest challenge, according to Thomas, has been the mental aspect of recovery. He emphasized that his eagerness to return to the field was a significant mental hurdle at the start of his rehabilitation.

Thomas is currently following a running progression plan, and updates on his return are forthcoming.

In the meantime, Randal Grichuk has stepped up in the outfield for the Diamondbacks. Just a few days ago, Grichuk delivered a walk-off hit into the gap, securing a thrilling 12-11 win over the Cubs in extra innings.