Let’s take a look at the latest injury news and notes around fantasy baseball, involving Daulton Varsho, Chris Sale, Lance McCullers Jr., Brandon Belt, and Hunter Renfroe.
Daulton Varsho removed from Friday’s game with sore right shoulder
Daulton Varsho was removed from Friday’s game against the Dodgers with a sore right shoulder. (Source: Nick Piecoro on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Varsho was hit by a pitch in the shoulder blade in the first inning, but remained in the game until being hit for in the fifth inning. Hopefully the Diamondbacks are being cautious, and the fact that Varsho remained in the game for several innings after the HBP may bode well for his long-term outlook. Arizona should update Varsho’s status after the game.
– Dan Harris
Lance McCullers Jr. (forearm) throws off rubber for first time Friday
Lance McCullers Jr. threw off the rubber for the first time Friday. (Source: Chandler Rome on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Astros beat reporter Chandler Rome said McCullers threw sinkers, four-seamers and changeups. He was in the “low 80s,” velocity wise after being in the 70s last time out. McCullers said he is “very encouraged” by his progress. He remains without a timetable to return, but this certainly is a step in the right direction.
– Ari Koslow
Brandon Belt (knee) not expected to return from IL when first eligible
Giants manager Gabe Kapler told reporters Friday that Brandon Belt is not expected to be activated from the injured list when first eligible Sunday. (Source: Evan Webeck on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Belt remains in San Francisco rehabbing. He is currently hitting .228 across 26 games with four home runs so far this season.
– Ari Koslow
Hunter Renfroe (hamstring) does some jogging Friday
Hunter Renfroe was on the field jogging Friday for the first time since his hamstring injury on Monday. (Source: Sophia Minnaert on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Brewers manager Craig Counsell said the team could know more about Renfroe’s timeline in the next few days in the Cubs series. He was placed on the injured list on Tuesday.
– Ari Koslow
Chris Sale (rib) throws bullpen session Friday
Chris Sale threw close to 25 pitches in the bullpen Friday. (Source: Ian Browne on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: The plan is for Sale to be off the mound three times next week. He could be on a minor league rehab assignment by the week of June 6, which means he has a chance to return to the Red Sox rotation by the end of June barring any setbacks.
– Ari Koslow
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