Joey Gallo was in the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup for a second consecutive game but saw his day end early due to a right elbow contusion that was the result of being hit by a pitch.
Alex Cobb plunked Gallo with a 96 mph sinker in the second inning that appeared to primarily make contact with his elbow guard. Gallo winced in pain before making his way to first base without any issue. He remained in the game for another inning but Miguel Vargas was on deck to pinch-hit in the bottom of the third.
Gallo’s spot in the order didn’t come up, so Vargas replaced him in left field to begin the fourth inning.
Whether Gallo will require an X-ray or additional testing on his right elbow is not presently clear. The Dodgers are off Thursday before facing the San Diego Padres to begin a nine-game road trip.
Gallo entered the day having hit .203/.311/.469 with a 122 wRC+ and four home runs over 24 games since being traded to the Dodgers. He’s among the multiple outfielders seemingly vying for a spot in the outfield come the postseason.
But with Mookie Betts a lock in right field, and Cody Bellinger a perceived favorite in center field, Trayce Thompson could hold the upper hand in left field.
Manager Dave Roberts reiterated Wednesday that he continues to evaluate players on a daily basis and he anticipates tough decisions throughout the roster once the postseason begins.
Gallo filling role in deep Dodgers lineup
A coveted trade chip one year ago, Gallo’s stock fell dramatically at the deadline this season. The Dodgers nevertheless are convinced by his upside, and Gallo has found some comfort with not needing to be a star in the lineup.
“I think with the lineup we have, it takes a lot of pressure off,” Gallo said after hitting a home run in Tuesday’s win over the Giants.
“I’m just kind of there. I’m just watching these guys get three hits a game and stuff. And maybe I can contribute a little bit, but it’s nice to have such depth and so many talented players up and down the lineup that anybody can take over a game. So, yeah, it’s a lot of weight off your shoulder, I think.”
More must-reads: