While the Los Angeles Dodgers look to solve their troubles and remain afloat in what’s been a disappointing first five weeks of the season, there could be some comfort found in the expectation of injured players soon returning.
Among them is Rich Hill, who has been on the 10-day disabled list since April 18 (retroactive to April 15) due to inflammation in the middle finger of his left hand. At the time of the roster move, Hill and the Dodgers said the matter was not serious.
It was also explained the trouble was a result of a cracked fingernail, not the blisters that dogged Hill for the better part of two seasons. But Hill didn’t make his expected start against the Arizona Diamondbacks because of an infection in the finger.
The southpaw nonetheless is on track to be activated and start against the San Diego Padres in the finale of the Mexico Series, per Andy McCullough of the L.A. Times:
After missing one start with a cracked fingernail and missing another start when his finger became infected, Dodgers pitcher Rich Hill is expected to return to the starting rotation on Sunday against the Padres in Monterrey, Mexico.
Assuming Hill does take the mound as planned, it will be in place of Clayton Kershaw who in turn will receive an extra day of rest before his next start.
Also expected to start in Mexico is Walker Buehler, who will need to be recalled from High-A Rancho Cucamonga. MLB is permitting the Dodgers and Padres to add a 26th man to their respective rosters for the international games, but it cannot be a pitcher.
Hill is 1-1 with a 6.00 ERA, 5.04 FIP and 1.60 WHIP in three outings this season. He’s yet to face the Padres in 2018.
