Los Angeles Dodgers infielder/outfielder Alex Guerrero was one of eight players placed on the disabled list on Sunday, as the club formally announced their 25-man active roster for Opening Day of the 2016 season.
In total, the Dodgers are beginning the year with 10 players on the DL, including three of whom are on the 60-day DL. Having last appeared in a Cactus League game on March 21, Guerrero was put on the 15-day DL retroactive to March 25.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed over the weekend that the Cuban native was sent for an MRI on his troublesome left knee. The MRI revealed “minimal damage” in Guerrero’s left knee, though Roberts said surgery isn’t necessary.
Roberts added Guerrero was shut down and in the beginning phase of the rehabilitation process. Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman previously remarked he didn’t believe Guerrero’s knee trouble was a long-term issue, though it was prior to the MRI.
At one point, the 29 year old went nine days between appearances in Cactus League games due to the balky knee. Guerrero batted .238/.238/.571 with one double, two home runs, two RBIs and four strikeouts in 21 plate appearances over nine games this spring. Outside of occasionally being used as a pinch-hitter or designated hitter, Guerrero exclusively played third base — by design.
Although Guerrero was only placed on the 15-day DL, he appears to be less likely than Yasmani Grandal and Howie Kendrick to immediately be reinstated once eligible.
