Dustin May's comeback story is an inspiring tale of resilience and determination. His recent performance in a simulated game has baseball fans buzzing with excitement!
According to Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat, Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol revealed that May's fastball velocity reached impressive speeds of 97-98 mph, with a peak of 99 mph. This is a significant improvement from his career-low of 94.8 mph in 2025, which was a direct result of the challenges he faced post-surgery for an esophagus rupture.
May's journey to recovery has been an uphill battle. He struggled to maintain his weight, which impacted his pitching prowess. However, his dedication to regaining his form is evident. Over the offseason, May worked tirelessly to add around 20 pounds to his frame, aiming to restore the power in his fastball. And it seems to be paying off!
While the Cardinals are taking a cautious approach with May's return, given his past injury concerns, the early signs are extremely positive. He is healthy and ready to make his Grapefruit League debut soon. This slow and steady build-up ensures May's long-term success and minimizes the risk of further setbacks.
But here's where it gets controversial... Should May's weight gain be celebrated as a success story, or is it a potential red flag for future health issues? And this is the part most people miss... The mental fortitude required to overcome such challenges is often overlooked. May's determination to bounce back showcases an incredible mindset.
So, what do you think? Is May's weight gain a necessary step towards regaining his dominance on the mound, or could it lead to potential health risks down the line? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Let's spark a discussion and celebrate the resilience of athletes like Dustin May!
