After yesterday's victory over the Detroit Tigers in Lakeland, Phillies manager Pete Mackanin expressed some concern over Odubel Herrera's finger, which he injured back on March 6th sliding into home plate. Prior to the Tigers game, Herrera told Ryan Lawrence of PhillyVoice.com that he was planning to return this week, but now that may be up in jeopardy.
With the Phillies set to take on the Twins the afternoon in Clearwater, there's still plenty of focus on the status of their starting center fielder. Herrera provided an update on his status this morning and laughed when asked if the injury would keep him out of action come Opening Day.
“It’s a little bit behind, nothing major,” said Herrera, who referred to the injury as a bruise. “I’m getting treatment on it and it feels better today.”
“I saw a doctor this morning, there’s a little bit of inflammation left,” Herrera said. “I felt a lot better (hitting) with the finger guard on.”
Herrera has not taken live batting practice in the last week but has progressed toward hitting off a tee and off soft toss during his 10-day absence from games.
Herrera let out a hearty laugh when asked if he’d be back on the field in time for Opening Day, 13 days from Tuesday.
“Of course,” he said. [PhillyVoice.com]
Meanwhile, Cody Asche, who could be in the outfield mix when he returns from an oblique injury, took live batting practice in Clearwater today and although he's taking steps towards recovery, he's is likely to begin the season on the disabled list. In addition to playing the outfield, Asche should provide some infield depth at third in case Maikel Franco needs a day off.
“It’s not to the point where it’s hurt anymore,” Asche said following a productive hitting session. “It’s more where you’ve got to just get over mental hurdles. It’s like if you broke a foot and you wanted to go running. It’s going to take baby steps. It’s such a violent movement.”
Asche remains almost certain to begin the regular season on the disabled list.
“It is what it is,” said Asche, who has missed the entirety of the Grapefruit League schedule. “Like I said before, (the Phillies) are going to act in the best interest in me.” [PhillyVoice.com]
Included in Ryan Lawrence's article is also an update on Aaron Altherr, who hopes to return before the end of the season better and stronger than ever.
