Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced Kevin Pillar will undergo surgery on Tuesday to repair a fractured left shoulder suffered in the series finale against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
“I think that for all intents and purposes is the end of the season for him,” Roberts added.
Pillar twice had his shoulder pop in and out of place last Wednesday, including when trying to make a head-first slide into third base. He was checked on by Roberts and a trainer before initially remaining in the game.
Pillar later scored from third base but was removed between innings. An examination of Pillar’s shoulder the following day revealed the fracture.
“What’s interesting is that he was trying to lobby to stay in the game and potentially be ready for Saturday,” Roberts said last week when discussing Pillar’s injury diagnosis. “It just speaks to how tough he is.”
Pillar signed a Minor League contract with the Dodgers and remained patient while performing well in Triple-A Oklahoma City. He was 1-for-12 in limited opportunities with L.A. before suffering the shoulder injury.
“I worked really hard to put myself in a position to be here,” the veteran outfielder said last week. “This was the place I ultimately wanted to be, that I dreamed of since I was a little kid. I finally felt like I was fitting in here.”
Pillar hopeful to return in 2022
Prior to deciding on surgery for his left shoulder, Pillar believed a return this season is within the realm of possibilities.
While the rehab process in months ahead will determine the eventual outcome, Pillar was transferred to the 60-day injured list for the time being so the Dodgers could add Eddy Alvarez to their 40-man roster and call him up.
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