Marlins' Gordon may not go on DL according to Michael Hill
MIAMI -- Miami Marlins All-Star second baseman Dee Gordon may not go on the disabled list for his left dislocated thumb, according to president of baseball operations Michael Hill.
While addressing media prior to Sunday's first-half finale with the Cincinnati Reds, Hill said there was swelling -- as expected -- but "not as bad as it could have been. We're optimistic it shouldn't be a long-term issue for him."
Since Gordon, who hurt the thumb while sliding into first base for an infield hit during the seventh inning of Saturday's 14-3 win, had range of motion and "decent strength given the injury," no MRI was performed. X-rays confirmed no ligament damage.
"It could've been much worse," Hill said. "We are optimistic we're not going to place him on the DL at the moment. We were carrying an extra pitcher, that's why we made the move with (Donovan) Solano and (Adam) Conley postgame (on Saturday). We'll continue to monitor it, and it's going to take a few days. We have the break here, which is nice. Probably won't be available that first series after the break but hopefully shortly thereafter.
"DL may not be necessary. Going to do everything, Dee's going to do everything in his power to avoid that. You can retro 10 days for a DL if it looks like it may linger into that length of time.Then a DL may become necessary, but we're hopeful we don't go that far."
Following the game, Gordon also remained optimistic.
"I think I'm a quick healer," Gordon said. "We'll see how it goes."
Gordon joins right fielder Giancarlo Stanton in being unable to participate at the Midsummer Classic. Stanton underwent surgery on his left hamate fracture two weeks ago. Both players got voted in by the fans to start for the National League.
It marked the first time in the organization's history two players got voted in. Hanley Ramirez earned the distinction from 2008-10 and Gary Sheffield in 1993.
"It's still a tremendous honor that we had two Marlins voted in by the fans," Hill said. "It speaks volumes to the ability and talent of Dee and Giancarlo. Unfortunate with injuries both Dee's yesterday -- that's the one thing (manager Dan Jennings) and I as we talked -- just want to get him healthy through this series so he could stand on the line and suit up as a starter for the Marlins. Unfortunate for the ballclub, but doesn't diminish the fact we had two Marlins voted in by the public. we're very proud of that fact."
Hill was asked whether Miami would bring up the issue of no Marlins representation to Major League Baseball. The same thing happened in 2012 when knee surgery sidelined Stanton.
Each club is supposed to be represented at the Midsummer Classic. San Francisco Giants manager Bruce Bochy added Colorado Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki to the roster. Rockies second baseman DJ LeMahieu will start in Gordon's place.
"I think that's the spirit of the elections and the selections they try to make sure everyone is represented," Hill said. "I think the injury caveat is something you can't really control. Obviously we're a day away from the break and your starting second baseman gets hurt. I understand what goes on there. It would be nice to have all 30 teams represented on the line. We'll see if we can get any legs with it and make it so."
You can follow Christina De Nicola on Twitter @CDeNicola13 or email her at cdenicola13@gmail.com.
