New York Yankee outfielder Curtis Granderson got off to a rough start to his Spring Training. Granderson didn’t strike out five straight times, or get thrown out stealing. The newly minted $15 million dollar power hitter probably wishes his problems were based in getting hits.
Granderson stepped to the plate for his first at-bat of the spring and was promptly drilled by what ESPN.com is reporting was a 2-2 pitch. The pitch, delivered from J.A. Happ caused obvious pain for Granderson and he had to leave the game.
MLB.com reports that Granderson was initially diagnosed with a bruised forearm but was taken to the hospital for precautionary x-rays. Those x-rays showed that the injury was actually a fracture. The New York Yankees are now saying they believe that Granderson will be out for at least 10 weeks.
The club did add that the 10 week mark, which would have him coming back at the beginning of May. The team did add that the 10-week time frame is allowing him to be completely recovered and ready to return to major league action.
The injury does more than just set back Granderson when it comes to his bat. The New York Yankees had intended to attempt to move Granderson to left field this spring. He played left in the top of the first before having to leave in the bottom with the broken forearm.
Granderson has been the Yankees’ starting centerfielder every season he’s been in New York. While his bat has been a welcome addition to the position, his defense has been questioned recently. The Yankees were looking for Brett Gardner to take over center field this season.
Curtis Granderson is just the latest injury news for a Yankees team that has several players either hurt, or coming back from injury. Derek Jeter is working hard to get back from ankle surgery but he probably won’t play in a game for a few more weeks.