Dodgers News: Zack Greinke Leaves In First Inning With Calf Strain
Right-hander Zack Greinke has made headlines lately because of his comments about the team’s upcoming trip to Australia; however, the Los Angeles Dodgers may now have a bigger problem with their number two starter.
Greinke started today’s game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Camelback Ranch in the opener at the Dodgers’ facility. However, according to the official Dodgers Twitter account, Greinke was taken out with a right leg issue:
Zack Greinke was removed for precautionary reasons — right calf strain.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) February 27, 2014
After just four pitches, Greinke landed awkwardly on his left leg and was quickly checked on by shortstop Hanley Ramirez. The trainers and manager Don Mattingly came out to check on the right-hander. He consulted with the trainers and threw a few warmup pitches, but wasn’t able to remain in the game. A precautionary move is expected early in the spring, especially with a veteran player like Greinke. He’ll continue to be evaluated and could make his next start as Chris Withrow came in to him. Greinke’s injury comes a day after Carl Crawford said he experienced some tightness in his leg after running the bases.
Last season, Greinke suffered a setback in the spring with an elbow issue but was ready by the time the season started. He later missed time, breaking his collarbone after taking the brunt of the collision with San Diego Padres’ outfielder Carlos Quentin. Greinke returned from the injury faster than expected and enjoyed a strong debut season with the Dodgers, finishing 15-4 with a 2.63 ERA in 28 starts. The right-hander has made at least 28 starts every season since 2008 and is one of the more durable starters in recent years.
UPDATE: The Dodgers are calling Greinke’s strain “mild” according to Dylan Hernandez of the LA Times
Greinke's right calf strain is "mild," according to the #Dodgers.
— Dylan Hernandez (@dylanohernandez) February 27, 2014
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