Dodgers News: Greinke Expected To Miss Next Start With Calf Strain
One day after exiting his first Spring Training start just four pitches in, Los Angeles Dodgers’ right-hander Zack Greinke played catch today after walking through the clubhouse without a limp
Greinke was scheduled to throw a bullpen tomorrow based on how he felt today playing catch; however, it seems like the injury is a bit more serious.
According to Dylan Hernandez of the LA Times, Greinke’s calf wasn’t well enough for the right-hander to continue with his plans:
No bullpen session tomorrow for Greinke, who still feels something in calf.
— Dylan Hernandez (@dylanohernandez) February 28, 2014
Greinke expected to miss next start.
— Dylan Hernandez (@dylanohernandez) February 28, 2014
Greinke was adamant about being ready to start for the Dodgers when they head to Australia for their two-game opening series against the Arizona Diamondbacks late next month. He has previously shared his lack of excitement about the trip to Sydney, but then said that he would want to pitch since the Dodgers are already going.
Missing a start in an already condensed Spring Training could prompt manager Don Mattingly to hold Greinke out of the games in Australia in place of a healthier pitcher. The Dodgers’ manager hasn’t yet decided on starters for the series, but he along with pitching coach Rick Honeycutt, want their starters to make at least four spring starts to be deemed ready for the series. By missing his next start, Greinke will likely not make the minimum amount of starts.
If Greinke says he’s ready, it’ll be up to the coaching staff to decide whether they want to use him or just save him for when they return to the United States. Last season, Greinke dealt with elbow issues early in the spring, but was ready in time for his first regular season start. He did miss some time with a broken collarbone following an incident with the San Diego Padres.
For the Dodgers, a healthy Greinke for the entire season is more important than having him available to pitch in Australia.
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