It’s been a tough stretch for J.D. Martinez of late.

The 2023 NL All-Star has been excellent on the plate this season, however the Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter has been hampered by a groin harm that, per Dodgers supervisor Dave Roberts, has been bothering the veteran since spring coaching.

That harm noticed him scratched from Wednesday’s lineup shortly earlier than the Dodgers swept the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Initially, a goal of this Saturday evening’s recreation in opposition to the Colorado Rockies was set for him to return to the lineup after the slugger acquired an epidural injection this week.

Now, that Saturday return received’t be taking place.

Roberts informed reporters earlier than the Dodgers performed the Rockies on Friday that he hopes that Martinez can play within the collection finale on Sunday. The group is then off on Monday.

Martinez has been an enormous issue within the Dodgers’ successful methods of late, and he’s hitting .260/.312/.558 with 25 house runs and 76 RBIs on the yr.

Hopefully for the Dodgers, Martinez is ready to make his tentative return on Sunday, however that now stays to be seen, particularly with the unique goal pushed again.

There needs to be extra readability on Sunday surrounding the 35-year-old, but when he’s unable to make important progress by the top of the weekend, there’s nonetheless choices within the group.

Dodgers No. 2 prospect Michael Busch has been placing on a present on the plate for the Triple-A Oklahoma Metropolis Dodgers this season, hitting .324/.434/.617 with 22 homers and 75 RBI, however he’s been largely blocked from getting constant enjoying time within the large leagues this yr.

If Martinez doesn’t make progress and winds up lacking extra important time, Busch may very well be a top quality choice to play in his stead.

Hopefully for Martinez and the Dodgers although, he’ll be capable to be within the lineup on Sunday and issues received’t come to that.

Picture Credit score: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports activities

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