Sports Out West West Coast sports news, scores & analysis — with a national perspective.
Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Carl Crawford is still experiencing nerve irritation in his left arm and may be in jeopardy of missing opening day, according to True Blue L.A.
No one around the team has set a timetable for his return surrounding the injury, and that was by design. Everyone around knows that it’s up to the player and the medical staff to dictate when he is fully healthy and completely free of symptoms.
”It challenges opening day a little bit. Talking with Carl, he says ‘I know I can still do it,’ but I’ve said all along, it’s why we haven’t set hard deadlines for anything,” manager Don Mattingly said. “When Carl gets on the field, I want him to be competitive.”
Crawford underwent Tommy John surgery prior to coming to Los Angels, and as a position player, his timetable for return is faster than what’s customary for that of a pitcher. Still, the inflammation and nerve issues he’s experiencing are common for anyone who’s had the procedure done. During the rehab process, he is taking anti-inflammatory medication and resting in order to be completely healthy for the upcoming season.
“If he’s going to play 140 games, I’d rather it be 140 straight, rather than play 10 and be out two weeks,” Mattingly said.
