While the Los Angeles Dodgers have received contributions throughout their roster, Cody Bellinger is credited for providing a spark since making his MLB debut on April 25. The 22-year-old wunderkind appeared in every game he’s been with the team prior to Sunday’s contest against the Detroit Tigers.
Bellinger’s streak was snapped due to a mild ankle sprain suffered while making a catch on the warning track in right field in the bottom of the sixth in Saturday’s game at Comerica Park. The start was just Bellinger’s third at the position and fifth game overall.
He hobbled around and was checked on by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and head athletic trainer Nate Lucero before finishing out the inning.
Bellinger was replaced by pinch-hitter Yasiel Puig in the top of the seventh. The Dodgers’ rookie and manager each downplayed concern during their respective postgame interviews.
The following morning, Roberts said Bellinger is likely to be out of the lineup in the coming games against the Pittsburgh Pirates, according to Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
“We’ll take it day by day,” Roberts said. “I think it’s one of those things that’s a two-, three-day thing. Obviously, that can adjust depending on how he feels.”
Roberts deemed Bellinger available to pinch-hit in the series finale with the Tigers, though he was not called upon. In 101 games this season, Bellinger is hitting .274/.356/.612 with 19 doubles, two triples, 34 home runs, 79 RBI, a .393 wOBA and 146 wRC+.
Whereas Bellinger once provided a safety net for Adrian Gonzalez to take the time necessary to get healthy, the veteran first baseman now plays a part in returning the favor. Gonzalez was initially scheduled to serve as a designated hitter after two starts at first base, but Bellinger’s injury altered that.
What’s more, the trade for Curtis Granderson gives Los Angeles ample outfield depth in the event Gonzalez continues to start at first base while Bellinger remains limited.
