Holderman sidelined for postseason due to upcoming right wrist surgery
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CLEVELAND -- Colin Holderman loomed as a potential X-factor for the Guardians this postseason, provided he was able to make his way back from a nagging case of right wrist inflammation. Instead, his season will come to an unfortunate close.
Holderman noted in the Guardians’ clubhouse on Thursday that he won’t make it back to pitch in the postseason. He said he’s going to undergo surgery to address his wrist issue, which has plagued him since 2023.
“My career starts next year,” Holderman said.
Holderman went on the 15-day IL with right wrist inflammation on Sept. 4 and attempted to work his way back to contribute in the postseason. But the issue persisted as he worked through his build-up program. He exited his one rehab appearance with Triple-A Columbus on Sept. 17, after his wrist flared up.
Holderman received an injection two days later and worked up to throwing bullpen sessions this week, while the Guardians had a first-round bye in the postseason. But his wrist continued to hinder him.
“He's still continuing to feel the pain, so we're going to shut him down as of right now,” manager Stephen Vogt said on Thursday.
Holderman missed time each of the past four seasons due to a right wrist issue. He spent two weeks on the injured list in 2023 due to inflammation, and another three weeks on it in ‘24 with a sprain. He missed six weeks in ‘25 with what he has described as De Quervain's syndrome, or chronic inflammation in the canal of the thumb that runs up the wrist.
Holderman joined the Guardians on a one-year deal this past offseason, and he noted early on this season how being healthy was a big difference-maker for him. He emerged a dependable “fireman” in the middle-to-late innings and who helped bridge games to closer Cade Smith.
Holderman’s final regular-season numbers (2.73 ERA and a 1.04 WHIP in 52 2/3 innings over 54 appearances) included a 2.08 ERA in 47 2/3 innings over his first 47 appearances. He exited his 48th appearance due to right wrist inflammation against the Padres on Aug. 15, and he made just five appearances the rest of the season.
It’s been a disappointing end to Holderman’s season individually, but he’s looking forward to being along for the Guardians’ ride.
“We’re the team of destiny,” Holderman said.
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While the Guards operated without Holderman in September, Tim Herrin was a reliable presence in the middle to late innings. He logged a 2.25 ERA in eight innings over nine appearances in the final month, and he had a 3.02 ERA across 67 appearances this season.
Veteran Shawn Armstrong pitched 2 1/3 scoreless innings after he returned on Sept. 23 following a two-month stint on the injured list for a strained left calf. He also is someone whom Vogt could turn to in a key spot in the middle to later half of a playoff game.