It’s been a rough start for the San Francisco Giants, and we haven’t even reached Opening Day yet.
Evan Longoria won’t reach Opening Day either, with Wednesday’s news that the third baseman is expected to miss six weeks after getting surgery to repair a ligament in his right index finger. Six weeks from today is May 11, meaning that based on Gabe Kapler’s estimated timetable, Longoria will miss at least 31 games.
Taking over the “everyday” duties at third base will likely be Wilmer Flores, but he could split time with the left-handed hitting Jason Vosler if Kapler wants to play matchups at the position.
The news is just the latest injury blow for the Giants, who have also seen Mike Yastrzemski and Lamonte Wade Jr. pick up knocks. Wade Jr. (knee) is also slated to miss opening day, while Yaz is expected to be okay with quad tightness.
Longoria, 36, is in the final guaranteed year of his deal and is coming off a stellar season in which he posted a slash line of .261/.351/.482 and hit 13 home runs in just 81 games. The Giants have the option to retain Longoria next season for $13 million.
Longoria’s finger will be immobilized for 10 days before he resumes baseball activities.