The Tigers were going split-squad on Saturday. The team that was playing (home) in Lakeland included outfielder J.D. Martinez. Unfortunately, Martinez could not finish the game due to injury.
J.D. Martinez walking to clubhouse gingerly — but no longer limping — with athletic trainer Kevin Rand. Replaced by Alex Presley in RF.
— Evan Woodbery (@evanwoodbery) March 18, 2017
According to Evan Woodbery, Martinez made a shoestring catch to end the first inning and tumbled forward. He came up limping and walked off the field under his own power, aided by trainer Kevin Rand, and favoring his right ankle.
#Tigers OF J.D. Martinez just returned to the ballpark on crutches. Regardless, he told me he's feeling better.
— Dan Hasty (@ThatDanHasty) March 18, 2017
J.D. Martinez left today's game with a mid right foot sprain. X-rays were negative and he will be re-evaluated tomorrow.
— Tigers PR (@DetroitTigersPR) March 18, 2017
As Woodbery points out, Martinez was replaced by outfielder Alex Prelsey, who has been putting together an excellent spring training in an effort to crack to the 25-man roster for Opening Day.
Martinez departing the game comes less than two days after fellow Tigers slugger Miguel Cabrera left a WBC game with apparent back tightness.
