Major League Baseball Changes Name of Disabled List to Injured List

Major League Baseball's spring training will begin in late February and the new season is on the horizon. With it will come a change to the designation players have when injured for a period of time. 

Formerly known as the disabled list, it will now be re-named the 'injured list.' As ESPN reported, the name change came over "concern that the term "disabled" for injured players falsely conflates disabilities with injuries and an inability to participate in sports."

Christa Bialka, assistant professor of special education, says this is a great move to help promote inclusiveness. 

"People often equate disability with deficiency instead of difference," said Bialka. "Jim Abbott’s successful MLB career proves that you can have a disability and excel as an athlete. Now, official language reflects this idea. Because baseball is such a high-profile sport, re-branding the list offers an opportunity for parents to talk to their children about disability and labels."

Abbott was a former pitcher who was born without a right hand. He went on to have a successful career and even threw a no-hitter in 1993.

To speak with Bialka, email mediaexperts@villanova.edu or call 610-519-5152.