Luis Arraez Heads to the IL After Scary Collision

After a scary collision on Sunday night, Luis Arraez entered the concussion protocol on Monday and was subsequently placed on the 7-day concussion IL. According to San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt, the injury doesn’t seem as severe as expected, but we are all hoping that Arraez makes a speedy recovery and gets back on the field soon.

Arraez Has Scary Collision

In the 1st inning between the San Diego Padres and Houston Astros, at Daikin Park in Houston, Arraez threw a bunt down that went to first baseman Christian Walker. Walker then turned and tossed the ball to a hustling Mauricio Dubón covering first. Unable to stop their momentum, Dubón and Arraez collided, sending Arraez to the ground in a heap. A hush fell over the crowd. 

After some time with trainers and medical staff, Arraez was carted off the field on a stretcher. He was cognitive and alert and even returned to the visiting clubhouse to celebrate the team’s victory, a good sign. He then spent the night at Houston Methodist Hospital for further evaluation. 

How Does This Affect the Padres?

Arraez has been one of the most consistent hitters over the last few years, starting with the Miami Marlins and continuing after being traded to the Padres. Even though he started the season 1-18, he picked up the pace in the last 17 games with a .338 AVG. The Padres recalled infielder Mason McCoy, but that doesn’t help more than making sure they had another body to be able to play the field.

Jake Cronenworth hit the IL with a right rib fracture, Jackson Merrill with a right hamstring strain, Brandon Lockridge with a left hamstring strain and Jason Heyward with left knee inflammation. That’s five opening-day starters the Padres are now hoping to find their way back sooner rather than later. 

The most notable part of these players being out is that four of the five are regular left-handed batters, who have been tough on opposing pitchers and the strategy the teams have in pitching through this lineup. The Padres are currently tied for first in the National League West with the Los Angeles Dodgers. This is an inopportune time for some of the best players to be out.