A phenomenological examination of the effects of social support on the return-to-play journey of professional baseball players

Abstract

This qualitative phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of professional baseball players at various levels within MLB organizations during two critical moments in their efforts to return to competitive play after a long-term injury: the return-to-play (RTP) and return-to-competition (RTC) phases. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted during the 2025 season.