The Los Angeles Dodgers have dealt with a rash of injuries to their pitching staff this season, and in particular the starting rotation, but now have some concern with David Peralta after he was removed early from the series opener against the San Francisco Giants due to a left hamstring strain.
Peralta legged out an infield single to lead off the bottom of the second inning, but in avoiding the tag attempt from LaMonte Wade Jr., had his left leg and ankle make awkward contact with the corner of the first base bag.
Peralta immediately went tumbling to ground and was checked on by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and trainer Yosuke “Possum” Nakajima before initially remaining in the game. Peralta advanced to second base when Miguel Vargas hit into a fielder’s choice but was replaced when the third inning began.
James Outman entered the game to play center field, which pushed Jonny DeLuca to left field. The start was DeLuca’s third this season, all of which have come as the center fielder.
If Peralta needs to go on the 10-day injured list, he’ll accompany Max Muncy, who was sidelined Friday because of a left hamstring strain. Muncy’s IL stint was backdated to Tuesday, which makes Friday, June 23, the earliest he can be activated.
The Dodgers potentially losing Peralta for any stretch would take away one of their more productive bats. Since overcoming a slow start in his first season with the team, Peralta entered the night batting .337/.380/.522 with six doubles, one triple, three home runs, 15 RBI and a 146 wRC+ in 30 games (27 starts) since May 1.
Furthermore, the Dodgers also have an injury concern with Chris Taylor, who was removed Friday as well because of right knee pain.
David Peralta found rhythm
Evidenced by his results, Peralta recently said he had settled into a consistent feel at the plate and remained focused on producing whenever called upon in the platoon role.
The veteran outfielder had previously said he welcomed multiple Dodgers outfielders performing well even if it might amount to fewer opportunities on a personal level.
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