Orioles' Cedric Mullins explains handling of Crohn's diagnosis

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Cedric Mullins’ outstanding 2021 statistics for the Baltimore Orioles appear even more impressive after learning of the compounding offseason surgery had to overcome.

Mullins underwent intestinal surgery in November 2020 after a diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease. He was diagnosed during the season and waited until it ended before having the surgery.

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"It was a shock for me to have to go through that," Mullins said. "My main concern was being ready for the season and not missing any time and luckily I was able to do that and build my body back up through the season."

In 2021, Mullins became the first player in Orioles history to hit 30 home runs and steal 30 bases in the same season. He was also the starting center fielder for the American League in the All-Star Game and hit .291 batting left-handed exclusively after abandoning switch-hitting.

Mullins shared the news of his Crohn's diagnosis with Baltimore’s front office and a few close friends, including first baseman/designated hitter Trey Mancini, who had missed the 2020 season after colon cancer surgery and undergoing chemotherapy.

Mancini’s recovery was the big story in Orioles’ camp last year, and Mullins chose not to reveal his illness to allow Mancini to share his story.

FILE - Baltimore Orioles center fielder Cedric Mullins looks on from the dugout after robbing a two-run home run off New York Yankees' Gary Sanchez during the second inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021, in Baltimore. Mullins’ outstanding 2021 statistics for the Orioles appear even more impressive after learning of the compounding offseason surgery he had