Arizona Diamondbacks center fielder A.J. Pollock left the field with a fractured elbow during Friday’s spring training game against the Kansas City Royals. The injury will require surgery, and it’s unclear when Pollock will be able to return to the lineup.
Continue for updates.
Pollock Comments on Injury
Saturday, April 2
“It felt like a nightmare,” Pollock told reporters. When asked if he plans to return this season, the outfielder said, “That’s going to be my goal,” per Steve Gilbert of MLB.com
Pollock to Undergo Surgery
Friday, April 1
Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reported Pollock fractured his elbow and requires surgery.
Pollock Has Become Outfield Staple for Diamondbacks
Pollock had an MRI on his right elbow during spring training in March, but it came back negative, ensuring he’d be healthy in time for the start of the 2016 campaign. He appeared in 157 games last season and batted .315 with 20 home runs and 76 RBI.
The 28-year-old did only appear in 75 contests in 2014—mostly due to a freak injury, as he fractured his right hand when he was hit by a pitch. That required surgery, but Pollock showed no ill or lingering effects in 2015.
In addition to his prowess at the plate, Pollock is an exceptional defender, winning a Gold Glove Award last season as well. His all-around exceptional play can’t really be emulated by anyone else on the roster, so Arizona will have to hope he can return soon.
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