Playing through injury or pain/discomfort was hardly a foreign concept to Adrian Gonzalez. He went 13 seasons before landing on the disabled list, but has now twice been put on the DL by the Los Angeles Dodgers this year.
Gonzalez reported to Spring Training with forearm soreness, which he managed to recover from in time to represent Mexico in the 2017 World Baseball Classic. He aggravated the injury shortly after rejoining the Dodgers.
But the more pressing issue became the herniated disc in his back. It ultimately was enough to force Gonzalez to the DL in May and again this month. He sought out a second opinion, and was said to be considering an epidural injection.
According to David Vassegh of AM 570 L.A. Sports Radio, Gonzalez has yet to receive that and is searching for a long-term solution for a herniated disc that has worsened since last season:
Reported on @MLBNetwork Adrian Gonzalez hasn't had an epidural. Exploring all his options looking for long term solution not short term.
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) June 16, 2017
Gonzalez's herniated disc has gotten worse since last season and doesn't want it be a recurring issue. #Dodgers
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) June 16, 2017
Gonzalez received an epidural last season for back discomfort and continued to play. His production at the plate improved as the pain dissipated.
When Gonzalez might come off the disabled list is unknown. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recently surmised it may not be until after the All-Star break. Suffice to say, Los Angeles presumably will not accelerate the veteran first baseman’s return, having already done so when Andrew Toles suffered a season-ending knee injury.
Gonzalez is batting .255/.304/.339 with 11 doubles, one home run and 23 RBIs in 43 games this season. His slugging percentage would be the second-lowest of Gonzalez’s career, besting only the .381 slugging posted with the Texas Rangers as a rookie in 2004.
