David Peralta endured a painful sequence during the second inning of Sunday’s game against the Washington Nationals, which ended with being removed from the series finale after being hit by a pitch.
Peralta was initially checked on by Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and head athletic trainer Thomas Albert when he appeared to have some discomfort in his right hand/wrist after a swing. Peralta remained in the game, only for the next pitch from Trevor Williams to hit him on the inside of the left elbow.
Peralta immediately dropped the bat, hunched over and held his elbow while Roberts and Albert rushed out of the dugout to tend to him for a second time. Roberts quickly signaled to the dugout for Kiké Hernández to replace Peralta.
The veteran outfielder was in the Dodgers lineup for his 93rd start and 118th game overall this season. Peralta entered the day batting .272/.307/.396 with 20 doubles, seven home runs, 49 RBI, a .315 wOBA and 90 wRC+ while primarily filling a platoon role.
The Dodgers signed Peralta to a one-year, $6.5 million contract during the offseason. His deal includes performance bonuses that can bring the total value to $8 million.
Among Peralta’s highlights in his first year with the Dodgers include a go-ahead, two-run single late in a game against his former Arizona Diamondbacks teammates. Of greater note, Peralta’s clutch hit came against a left-handed reliever, for which he appreciated Roberts trusting him in that situation rather than utilizing a pinch-hitter.
What if David Peralta has an elbow injury?
The Dodgers announced Peralta was removed from the game due to a left elbow contusion. He presumably may undergo additional testing upon the team returning from their road trip.
If Peralta suffered a fractured elbow or similar injury, he would likely be out for the remainder of the regular season. The Dodgers could then look to recall Jonny DeLuca or potentially Miguel Vargas from Triple-A Oklahoma City to take Peralta’s spot on the active roster.
Michael Busch, who previously was chosen ahead of Vargas, may be an option as well despite not having as much experience in left field.
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