Kevin Kiermaier, an American baseball player for the Tampa Bay Rays, sprained his left thumb on July 20 when he slid headfirst into first base while playing against the Chicago White Sox. He had an MRI, which–as we often discuss on this site–is not typical. Physical examination of the metacarpophalangeal joint usually provides sufficient information. MRI can be difficult to execute and interpret. The team indicated no surgery is needed, meaning the ligament is in a position that it can heal naturally. Kiermaier will return to play in a couple of weeks.