Examining Batting Performance After a Sports-Related Concussion Among Major League Baseball Position Players

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Neurology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Determining full recovery after sports-related concussion (SRC) remains a significant clinical challenge.
• This study investigates performance metrics in baseball players post-SRC to establish return-to-performance benchmarks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To ascertain if batting performance in Major League Baseball (MLB) players returns to pre-injury baseline levels following an SRC.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive epidemiological study analyzed retrospective data of MLB position players with confirmed SRCs (2011-2015).
• Seven key batting metrics were assessed pre- and post-injury, relative to plate appearances (PAs), using longitudinal regressions.
• Controlled variables included defensive position, age, time missed, injury mechanism, and rehabilitation status.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences in batting performance were observed when using 60 or 30 days pre-injury as a baseline.
• Analysis of 48 cases meeting pre- and post-injury PA criteria showed no significant performance decline; some metrics even indicated slight, non-significant improvement.
• Results remained consistent across varying plate appearance inclusion thresholds.

Conclusions:

• MLB players cleared to return after an SRC demonstrate pre-injury offensive performance levels.
• Adequate plate appearances are crucial for accurately comparing pre- and post-injury performance metrics.
• This research provides a framework for assessing return-to-performance in athletes post-concussion.