The Los Angeles Dodgers have been bitten by the injury bug as of late, and among the players currently sidelined include Zach McKinstry, who is recovering from a right oblique strain.
The 25-year-old was placed on the 10-day injured list (retroactive to April 22) after feeling discomfort during batting practice last Thursday. “Kind of just took a swing during B.P. and felt it,” he said.
“Took a few more swings and kept feeling the same thing, so I kind of figured I was just a little tight. Went into the weight room and was asking what can I do for this certain spot. They were like, ‘Yeah, you’ve got to see the trainer.’ Kind of just went off that.”
Despite sustaining the strain less than a week ago, McKinstry has already resumed working out and is feeling significantly better. “Getting a lot of rest, working out in the training room,” he said.
“Being able to get in the weight room again is nice. It’s still there, so not 100% yet. But the progression is looking good. I feel comfortable with where I’m at right now and it’s getting a little better.”
Though he’s making progress, McKinstry has not yet swung a bat and cautioned he is still a ways away from returning. “Not 100% yet. Once my oblique is 100%, then I can start swinging and doing more baseball activity,” he explained.
“We’ll kind of have an outline from there. I’m not at 100% yet, so I don’t really have an answer.”
McKinstry reflects on excellent start to 2021 season
When Kiké Hernandez signed with the Boston Red Sox in free agency, it opened the door for McKinstry to potentially fill his void as a super utility player.
The rookie has more than risen to the occasion so far, appearing at four different positions while hitting a stellar .296/.328/.556 with five doubles, three home runs and 14 RBI in 17 games.
“Yeah, just a little bit. I try not to let it sink in too much,” McKinstry answered when asked if he has reflected on his excellent start to the 2021 season. “Just excited to come back and I look forward to helping the team win again.
“Get back on the field and have fun. It’s a lot of work right now getting the body right. Just looking forward to getting back.”
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