Dodgers News: Adrian Gonzalez Leaves Game Early With Knee Contusion

With the final month of the season nearing, the Los Angeles Dodgers cannot afford to lose, whether it be players or games.

Howie Kendrick has been out for two weeks with a hamstring strain and he may be out at least one more week, if not more. The Dodgers acquired Chase Utley to fill the void at second, as well as give Kiké Hernandez more playing time in center field. Yasiel Puig dealt with a minor hamstring injury, but has returned with no problems.

On Thursday in Cincinnati, the Dodgers could be without another starter as Adrian Gonzalez exited the game early after fouling a ball off his knee. According to J.P. Hoornstra of the LA Daily News, Gonzalez was quickly diagnosed:

Adrian Gonzalez has a right knee contusion and is day to day.

— J.P. Hoornstra (@jphoornstra) August 27, 2015

A player like Gonzalez will play through injuries in a stretch run; however, if it prohibits him from playing to full capacity then the Dodgers could decide to rest him and not aggravate it any more.

The Dodgers start a three-game series with the Chicago Cubs at Dodger Stadium on Friday followed by three with the second-place San Francisco Giants. Losing Gonzalez would be a tough blow to either of those series.

More details to follow as they become available.