MLB Postseason: 5 Key Injuries to Watch Down the Stretch

Nothing can derail a run to the World Series like an injury to a key player. Countless teams have been done in by the injury bug.

This season, even though we are just over a month away from the playoffs, there are five injuries that we should be watching. Even though these five players are due back before the playoffs begin, they have the types of injuries that might be easily re-aggravated.

So, here they are: five key injuries that might have influence down the stretch.

Shortstop Jimmy Rollins, Philadelphia Phillies

He is the emotional leader of the Phillies, but he was placed on the 15-day DL on August 22. The problem is, however, that his injury is a right groin strain. As a player who relies on speed, this could change his game.

According to MLB.com, he is expected back in September, so he should be back easily before the playoffs. Nevertheless, an injury to Rollins in the playoffs or a delay in his return would hurt the Phillies because his replacement, Wilson Valdez, does not quite have the bat to replace Rollins.

Starting Pitcher Tommy Hanson, Atlanta Braves

The Braves need the third part of the front of the rotation back. Tim Hudson and Jair Jurrjens have been having great years, but when the playoffs come, they will appreciate having a third option.

Hanson is suffering from right shoulder tendinitis but is expected back in September according to MLB.com. Tendinitis can be annoying and lingering for pitchers, so this could pose a problem for the Braves as we come down the final stretch.

Closer Brian Wilson, San Francisco Giants

Wilson is probably one of the most intimidating pitchers in baseball. As the backbone of a very good San Francisco bullpen, he is currently on the DL because his right elbow is inflamed.

MLB.com says that he will be back in September, but inflammation can always come back. Without Wilson at the back of the bullpen, the Giants will have a much more difficult time climbing back into the lead of the National League West.

Third Baseman Adrian Beltre, Texas Rangers

Beltre is having another powerful season during his first in Texas. However, he hit the DL due to a strained left hamstring, and this leaves a big hole in the Texas lineup.

MLB.com reports that he will be back in September, but he has already re-aggravated this injury once while doing baserunning drills. Hamstring injuries are annoying to say the least, and the Rangers will hopefully have him back in the lineup come playoff time.

Starting Pitcher Clay Buchholz, Boston Red Sox

Boston has two very good starting pitchers in Josh Beckett and Jon Lester, but a third would definitely help in the playoffs. However, reports do not look so great concerning Buchholz.

MLB.com says that he could be out for the rest of the season because of a stress fracture in his lower back. This could definitely hurt the Red Sox's chances. His return has not been ruled out yet though, and the Red Sox would definitely welcome him back.