David Hernandez Exits with Right Ankle Contusion
By Editorial Staff
David Hernandez left Saturday afternoon’s game against the Padres after taking a line drive off of his right ankle.
Hernandez entered the game in the 8th inning and, after allowing an infield single and walking a batter, was hit in the ankle by a comebacker off the bat of Alberto Gonzalez.
Hernandez went down, but was able to quickly regain his feet. After meeting with Arizona’s training staff, Hernandez left the field under his own power.
Arizona’s hoping the injury doesn’t cause Hernandez to miss an extended period of time. The right hander has been excellent this season as a late inning reliever for the Diamondbacks. Usually playing the role of setup man for the club, Hernandez has also saved 11 games this year for Arizona.
On the season, Hernandez has a 2.65 ERA and 1.11 WHIP with 63 strike outs in his 57.2 innings of work. Hernandez has held opposing hitters to a .170 batting average this year while only surrendering a single home run.
Arizona acquired Hernandez this offseason along with Kameron Mickolio in the deal that sent Mark Reynolds to the Baltimore Orioles.
Since then, Hernandez has been a large part of the bullpen turnaround this season in Arizona. Diamondback relievers have improved by leaps and bounds since 2010, when they finished last in the league with an ERA of 5.74.
For more on the Diamondbacks, be sure to check out Venom Strikes.