Indians' Carrasco exits after taking line drive off hand
The Cleveland Indians' vaunted rotation took another hit Saturday.
Right-hander Carlos Carrasco was forced to leave his start against the Detroit Tigers just two pitches into the game when he was hit in his right hand by an Ian Kinsler line drive.
The Indians announced that Carrasco suffered a right hand contusion, and left Progressive Field to undergo further X-Rays.
Kinsler's liner appeared to hit Carrasco directly on the hand, which was exposed thanks to his delivery. As the ball caromed toward third base and Kinsler reached on an infield single, Carrasco walked around the mound in pain. After having his hand looked at for several minutes, he left the field accompanied by a trainer and was replaced by Jeff Manship.
A long-term injury to Carrasco would be devastating for the AL Central-leading Indians, who have visions of riding their staff to a World Series championship. Fellow right-hander Danny Salazar has already been shut down for at least the rest of the regular season, and possibly the playoffs, with a forearm strain.
Carrasco spent six weeks on the disabled list earlier this year after straining his hamstring in April, but hasn't missed a start since returning in June.
The 29-year-old owns a 3.32 ERA and has struck out 150 batters over 146 1/3 innings this season.
(Video courtesy: MLB.com)