Didi Gregorius, the Philadelphia Phillies shortstop, believes that his struggles this season are a result of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. He claims that he developed an elbow condition, specifically pseudogout, following his vaccination.
According to Gregorius, the vaccine shots led to the onset of pseudogout in his right elbow, causing significant pain and swelling that affected his performance on the field.
“When you mention that it may be from the vaccine, people look at you like you’re foolish because the vaccine isn’t supposed to have such a reaction,” Gregorius shared with The Inquirer before a game. “Some point fingers at the vaccine as the cause, and I am inclined to agree.”
Despite Gregorius’s belief, a vaccine expert from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia refuted the notion.
“The vaccine is not the culprit,” stated the expert. It is plausible that if Gregorius already had pseudogout, the vaccine could trigger a fleeting flare-up. However, enduring effects for months seem implausible.
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During the offseason, Gregorius secured a $28 million contract, but he went from a standout hitter in the previous season to one of the least productive offensive players in Major League Baseball for 2021.
Gregorius noted that he began experiencing discomfort and swelling in his elbow in April, shortly after receiving the second vaccine dose. The discomfort has persisted since then.
The shortstop mentioned that his doctor linked the issue to the vaccine.
“My doctor wasn’t definitive,” Gregorius explained. “Given that this is the joint I rely on the most, it’s tough on my elbow.”
Reflecting on his decision to get vaccinated, Gregorius admitted, “To some extent, yes.”
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“I experienced various reactions after both shots. Unfortunately, there’s little discussion on this matter,” Gregorius revealed. “… The elbow issue arose nine days post-vaccination. But this isn’t widely known. They simply say ‘Didi’s having a tough year,’ without delving into the specifics of my challenges.”
“I couldn’t bend my elbow for at least two months,” Gregorius disclosed. “Initially, they attributed it to inflammation, but it was more than that. Missing around 50 games was frustrating. I want to play, not sit idle. It’s been a frustrating year dealing with this. I didn’t receive a diagnosis until June.”
