On Tuesday night, Adrian Gonzalez lifted a 98 mph fastball from San Diego Padres reliever Miguel Diaz to the opposite field for a home run. Historically, going the other way with power served as a sign the Los Angeles Dodgers veteran first baseman was healthy and dialed in.
In 2017, it’s widely viewed as a pleasant surprise when Gonzalez so much as collects an extra-base hit. Prior to the home run, he doubled off the wall in right field. “I felt pretty good,” said Gonzalez after his fourth start this month. “I’m just happy to be able to have a good game.”
This season has been unlike any other for the former No. 1 overall draft pick. Gonzalez was placed on the disabled list for the first time in his career, then was sidelined a second time.
The Dodgers were forced to turn to Cody Bellinger in his absence, and the rookie took hold of an everyday role. While he usurped Gonzalez at first base, Bellinger’s emergence also allowed for his teammate to take the time necessary to recover from bulging discs in his back.
Prior to the Dodgers reinstating Gonzalez from the 60-day DL, manager Dave Roberts made it clear Bellinger would remain the starter at first base. More recently, Roberts said he would primarily use Gonzalez as a pinch-hitter to serve as preparation for a possible postseason role.
“I’ve just been enjoying being here,” Gonzalez said following Tuesday’s win. “Having a good time, enjoying my teammates, and when I’m called upon, I go out there and swing the bat.”
He received an epidural injection just over two weeks ago, but hasn’t been able to gauge its full effectiveness because of sparse playing time. The 35-year-old has been limited to 71 games this season, which includes only appearing in nine of the last 26.
“I’m fine with my sanity, I’m fine with the way everything’s been,” Gonzalez said. “I’m just enjoying the moment out there.”
