New York Yankees outfielder Alex Verdugo has sleeves of tattoos covering both arms, including imagery of roses and a large compass. However, Verdugo is reportedly allergic to the chemicals cobalt and chromat, which are found in his tattoos as well as his batting gloves. This allergic reaction has caused problems in his hands since 2021, leading to pain, blistering, and scabbing. The Yankees recently sent Verdugo to an allergist to address the issue, and he was surprised to learn of his allergies to his gloves. Franklin Sports, the company that makes Verdugo’s gloves, is working to resolve the issue and ensure that he has equipment that won’t cause an allergic reaction.
In addition to addressing the issue with his gloves, Verdugo is also considering taking Dupixent shots to help alleviate his allergic reactions. Despite dealing with this issue for three years, he is determined to find a solution. This season, Verdugo is batting .235 with 10 home runs and 53 RBI for the Yankees after being traded from the Red Sox. While he started the season strong, his performance has dipped since June, with his batting average and OPS decreasing. In Boston, Verdugo was statistically a better player, with a higher batting average and OPS over four seasons, but his average dropped each year. In 2023, he hit .264, the lowest of his career since his time as a bench player with the Dodgers in 2018.
Verdugo’s struggles with his allergies have affected his performance on the field, and finding a solution is crucial for him to continue playing at a high level. The combination of cobalt and chromat in his tattoos and gloves has caused ongoing discomfort in his hands, making it difficult for him to perform at his best. With the support of the Yankees and his equipment provider, Franklin Sports, Verdugo is working to find a solution that will allow him to continue playing without experiencing allergic reactions. Taking Dupixent shots may also help mitigate his symptoms and improve his overall comfort and performance on the field.
Despite the challenges he has faced due to his allergies, Verdugo remains determined to overcome them and continue playing baseball at a high level. His commitment to finding a solution and exploring different treatment options demonstrates his dedication to his craft and his desire to succeed. By working closely with his team and his equipment provider, Verdugo is taking proactive steps to address his allergies and ensure that he can perform at his best without being limited by allergic reactions. As he continues to work towards a resolution, Verdugo’s resilience and perseverance will be key in overcoming this obstacle and returning to top form on the field.
Ultimately, the news of Alex Verdugo’s allergies to his tattoos and batting gloves sheds light on the challenges that professional athletes can face, even beyond the physical demands of their sport. The impact of allergies on his performance serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing health concerns and finding solutions to ensure that athletes can compete at their best. By sharing his story, Verdugo highlights the importance of seeking help and advocating for oneself in order to overcome obstacles and continue pursuing success in the face of adversity. With the support of his team and his determination to find a solution, Verdugo is setting an example of resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges, both on and off the field.
