Manager Chip Hale says A.J. Pollock could start season on DL
Mar 27, 2016, 12:24 PM | Updated: Mar 28, 2016, 10:28 am
Arizona Diamondbacks' A.J. Pollock hits a grand slam against the San Diego Padres during the second inning of a baseball game Friday, Sept. 25, 2015, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
(AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
Arizona Diamondbacks’ All-Star center fielder A.J. Pollock may start the season on the disabled list, according to manager Chip Hale.
The outfielder has been battling soreness in his right elbow since March 8. Pollock was on track to get back into the lineup early this week. Hale has stated he wants to see Pollock get some game action during the remaining spring training games.
He has to get enough at-bats to feel ready. So if that’s not possible, then maybe the DL is an option.
Pollock did play March 24 in a minor league game, going 0-for-4 with two strikeouts. While the outfield only has eight total at-bats in spring training, Pollock told reporters that he is happy with his rehab process.
It’s good to get some at-bats. There’s a couple of things I have to work on. But overall, just getting out there and being another step toward getting back with the squad is always a positive.
The 28-year-old enters 2016 ranked No. 57 among ESPN’s Baseball Tonight’s Top 100 MLB players, due to this breakout 2015 campaign. Pollock obtained career-highs in batting average (.315), home runs (20), RBI (76) runs scored (111) and stolen bases (39).
Arizona opens the 2016 season April 4 at home against the Colorado Rockies.
