Texas Rangers: Elvis Andrus goes to the DL for first time in his career
Texas Rangers shortstop Elvis Andrus has suffered a fractured elbow after being hit by a pitch. The time timetable for the injury has not yet been disclosed; however, it is likely Texas will be without Andrus for much of the season.
Texas Rangers nation gasped for air as they witnessed Elvis Andrus fall to the ground after being hit by a pitch in last night’s ballgame. Los Angeles Anges reliever Keynan Middleton ran a 98 mph fastball into Andrus’ right elbow, resulting in the All-Star shortstop’s immediate departure from the game. Shortly after, news broke that Elvis Andrus did, in fact, suffer a fractured elbow.
Remarkably, this will be the 10-year veterans first ever trip to the disabled list. He has been the Texas Rangers iron man, playing in nearly every game throughout his impressive career.
Little information has surfaced thus far; however, a lengthy sideline for Andrus appears likely. His 2018 season may or may not be over, but he will certainly miss at least a few months.
Probable elbow fracture for Rangers SS Elvis Andrus after being hit by pitch.....Initial x-rays and examination indicate the probability of a fracture in the elbow. Andrus’ elbow was put in a splint and he will undergo additional x-rays and CT scan Thursday.
— Bill Jones (@CBS11BillJones) April 12, 2018
The timing is terrible. Though, it doesn’t seem the Rangers are meant for overwhelming success this season, losing arguably their best player 13 games into the season is not helping their chances.
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The hit by pitch came with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning with the Rangers trailing 7-2. Not exactly an essential at-bat for Elvis Andrus. There were some antics earlier in the game that has sparked a suspicion that the hit batch occurred intentionally.
A questionable slide into second base by the Angels was followed up by Mike Trout being hit with a pitch in the top of the 9th. Coincidentally, the Andrus HBP happened in the bottom of the 9th. The Rangers and Angels are longtime rivals and are known to have scuffles from time to time.
Despite their history, the intent behind the Middleton pitch is unlikely. He does throw hard, and the game was practically out of reach, but the pitch was only about a foot inside. In fact, Elvis Andrus had begun to swing at, putting his right elbow in harm’s way.
Regardless of intent, the reality is Texas has lost their hottest and most reliable bat. Andrus can still lead from the clubhouse, but it’s not the same as leading from the field. Elvis Andrus broken elbow is devastating for him and the team, as well as Major League Baseball.
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We’ll hear the official injury timetable soon enough. Whether it’s one month or five, the Texas Rangers need to develop a game plan without their beloved shortstop.