MINNEAPOLIS — Carlos Correa has put in significant effort to restore his foot health. After struggling with plantar fasciitis that hampered his performance for a second straight year with the Minnesota Twins, the three-time All-Star shortstop is gearing up for spring training next month with no limitations.
“I’ve been sprinting. I’ve been running around. I’ve been doing about everything,” Correa shared during the team’s annual fan festival at Target Field. He emphasized his focus on combining treatment with strengthening exercises, mentioning that he has taken to walking barefoot around his home to aid his recovery. “So I’m in a really good spot.”
Correa was having his most effective season with the Twins, and many consider it his best performance since his time with the Houston Astros in 2017. However, his season took a turn when a three-game series on artificial turf in Arizona reignited pain around his right heel in late June. Despite pushing through for a few weeks, Correa found no relief even during the All-Star break.
As a result, he missed over two months of play, and the Twins struggled in his absence. Correa returned to the team towards the end of a challenging season, but his return could not salvage their performance; the Twins completed the season with a disappointing record of 82-80 after losing 27 of their last 39 games.
“It was tough, but you’ve got to just flush it down the drain and focus on the next one. I feel like we have a great team,” stated Correa, who faced similar foot issues with his left foot last season. “We have a lot of young guys with so much potential, and if we put in the work, we’re going to be in a great spot.”
Correa sought specialized treatment during his prolonged absence last year, which included shockwave therapy to stimulate blood flow and help repair damaged tissue in his foot. He intends to incorporate this treatment into his ongoing recovery plan and will also utilize additional arch support in his cleats to ease heel pressure. Last year, he went to the extent of modifying his cleats and insoles to find relief.
“Carlos is known for his dedication and preparation. He will do everything necessary, both on and off the field, to manage it,” team president Derek Falvey remarked optimistically.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, the Twins are considering more designated hitter opportunities for Correa to reduce the strain on his feet. With depth in their infield, featuring players like Royce Lewis, Brooks Lee, Jose Miranda, Edouard Julien, and Willi Castro, the organization aims to limit his playing time on the field. The offseason departure of Carlos Santana opens up first base as a potential position for reassignment during spring training.
Currently, the team is in a spending hold as they navigate a sale, resulting in no significant acquisitions to the roster. The successful return of Correa could significantly enhance the team’s plans for the future of the franchise in the coming seasons.
Despite the winter trade rumors surrounding him, Correa remains unconcerned due to his no-trade clause. “Let me tell you something: I love Minnesota, and I love the fishing here,” he asserted, expressing his fondness for the state.
