PHOENIX — Just when it seemed everything was going the Diamondbacks’ way, the team was hit with an injury to the starting lineup ahead of Arizona’s series opener against the Oakland Athletics.
The team placed first baseman Christian Walker on the 10-day injured list Monday with a right oblique strain.
Additionally, the team recalled INF/OF Andrew Young from the alternate training site.
Walker was absent from the starting lineup Monday after being pulled late in Sunday’s win over the Cincinnati Reds.
“He has the normal aches and pains and I just wanted to give his body a break. Get him off the field yesterday in anticipation of combining that with a day off today,” Lovullo said ahead of Walker moving to the 10-day IL.
“Right now, I feel like he’s in a good spot. Offensively he’s been struggling a little bit. I just think mentally and physically work through a couple things just to get a blow would obviously be the best-case scenario for him. All the athletes are going through some tough times right now. Definitely want to get him off his feet and give his body a break.”
In 39 at-bats this season, Walker is averaging .179 and slugging .282. He’s recorded seven hits (tied for fifth on the team), three RBIs (sixth) and four walks (tied for second). The first baseman has one home run on the year and has struck out 10 times (tied for second most).
With Walker out of the lineup Monday, the team turns to Asdrubal Cabrera at first base. Eduardo Escobar slides over to third, while Josh VanMeter mans second.
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