Broken Hand to Sideline Ryan Vogelsong 4-6 Weeks

A broken hand will keep Ryan Vogelsong on the DL for at least four to six weeks. (Image Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports)

Ryan Vogelsong fractured two bones in his right hand and dislocated his pinkie finger on Monday, landing the right-hander on the disabled list. The injury took place in the 5th inning of Monday’s game against the Washington Nationals. Vogelsong was at the plate in the bottom half of the inning before taking a pitch directly off his hand, prompting San Francisco Giants manager Bruce Bochy and team trainers out to the plate. Vogelsong would end up being pulled from the game.

An MRI exam on Tuesday revealed the extent of the damage and Vogelsong underwent surgery. He’s expected to miss the next four to six weeks.

Vogelsong hasn’t gotten off to an impressive start to the 2013 season, posting a 2-4 record and 7.19 ERA through his first nine starts (46.1 IP). He’s struggled to keep runners off base, unlike the past two seasons with the Giants. Vogelsong’s story is well known – career minor leaguer, heads to Japan, reinvents his mechanics, and is an All Star upon his return stateside – and the freak injury just adds to the story that has been his career.

It remains to be seen who will replace Vogelsong in the Giants’ rotation. Minor leaguers Chris Heston and Mike Kickham could be options, as are relievers Chad Gaudin and Shane Loux. With a scheduled off day built into their schedule on May 28, the team could delay a decision through at least one turn in the rotation.