Challenges in the Life of Didi Gregorius in a Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 8, 2026

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Didi Gregorius. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Mariekson Julius "Didi" Gregorius, a Curaçaoan professional baseball shortstop, currently plays for the Algodoneros de Unión Laguna in the Mexican League. He previously had a notable MLB career, playing for the Cincinnati Reds, Arizona Diamondbacks, New York Yankees, and Philadelphia Phillies. Gregorius is known for his fielding skills and contributions to the Yankees, where he was a key player for several seasons, filling the shortstop position after Derek Jeter's retirement.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2011: Health Issues and Recovery

In 2011, Gregorius experienced health issues including elevated cholesterol, proteins, and hypertension, leading to a kidney malfunction diagnosis. After adopting a vegetarian diet and medication regimen, he returned to the field after two months.

2011: Kidney Malfunction

In 2011, a chronic kidney malfunction hindered Gregorius' rise through the Reds' farm system, causing him to miss two months of the season.

2013: Strained Ulnar Collateral Ligament

In 2013, Didi Gregorius suffered a strained ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow while working out for the World Baseball Classic, preventing him from participating in the tournament.

2014: Competition and Playing Time with the Diamondbacks

In 2014, Didi Gregorius competed for the starting shortstop role with the Diamondbacks and split playing time throughout the season, playing 80 major league games.

2014: Aggravation of Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tear

In 2014, when Didi Gregorius was acquired by the Yankees, he had already suffered an "asymptomatic" partial ulnar collateral ligament tear. He aggravated his injury when he made a throw from the outfield in Game 2 of the ALCS.

2017: Shoulder Injury and Return

In 2017, Didi Gregorius suffered a shoulder injury during the World Baseball Classic, sidelining him for several weeks. He began rehab assignments on April 22 and was activated on April 28. On September 4, Gregorius hit his 20th home run, a Yankees first. On September 20, Gregorius hit his 25th home run, passing Jeter's record. He finished the season with a .287 batting average in 136 games.

2018: Career-High Performance and Slump

In 2018, Didi Gregorius began the season with a career-high eight-RBI performance on April 3. He led the league in April with 10 home runs, 30 RBIs, and a .766 slugging percentage, earning AL Player of the Week and Month honors. He experienced a slump in May and early June, but recovered with two home runs on June 12. Gregorius finished the regular season with a .268 average, 86 RBIs, and 89 runs, contributing to the Yankees' MLB single-season home run record.

2019: Tommy John Surgery and Return

In 2019, Didi Gregorius began the season on the injured list due to Tommy John surgery. He was activated on June 7, and on July 23, he went 5-for-5 with seven RBIs. He hit his 100th career home run that same day. Gregorius finished the regular season with a .238 average. The Yankees were defeated in six games by the Astros in the ALCS.

2020: Phillies season amid COVID-19 pandemic

In 2020, Didi Gregorius played a good addition with the Philadelphia Phillies. Despite being considered "high-risk" due to his kidney disorder, he chose to play, wearing a face mask. He finished among the top shortstops in MLB for RBIs, hits, home runs, and batting average.