Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Corey Seager sustained a bruised shin not long into the 2017 Cactus League schedule, and was sent for X-rays that came back negative. He nonetheless missed a stretch of games, returning March 3.
However, Seager’s time back in the lineup was short-lived as he suffered from back tightness. The Dodgers, cognizant of the prolonged Spring Training this year because of the 2017 World Baseball Classic, intended to take a cautious approach with their young shortstop.
Seager was only expected to miss a couple of games while recovering, but his injury has since been described as an oblique issue. While a timeline is not in place for Seager’s return, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Seager is not expected to play in games this week, via Ken Gurnick of MLB.com:
Seager probably won't play in games this week.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) March 13, 2017
The 22-year-old is hitless, has one walk and one strikeout in three games this year. He missed time last spring while recovering from a mild knee sprain.
Roberts and Seager have maintained little concern over his current injury, and neither doubts availability for Opening Day of the 2017 season. The Dodgers conclude their exhibition schedule on April 1 against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Dodger Stadium, then begin the regular season two days later.
While Seager may run short on opportunities in Cactus League games, the Dodgers could ensure he receives ample at-bats in simulated or Minor League games.