Rockies first baseman Daniel Murphy is expected to land on the injured list after fracturing his left index finger during Friday’s 6-1 win over the Marlins. It is still unclear just how long he’ll be out of a starting gig this season, as no concrete timetable has been given for his return to the lineup.
Murphy, 33, sustained the injury while fielding a ground ball in the fourth inning of Friday’s game. According to postgame comments made by manager Bud Black, the infielder came away from the play with a jammed index finger, which X-rays later revealed to be a fracture in the first joint of the finger. Despite the obvious discomfort, Murphy remained in the game and went 1-for-5 with a ninth-inning single off of Miami right-hander Sergio Romo.
With Murphy unable to man his post for Saturday’s game against the Marlins, Black turned to second baseman Ryan McMahon as a temporary replacement. McMahon may split first-base duties with veteran first baseman Mark Reynolds for the foreseeable future, especially as rookie infielder Garrett Hampson appears well-positioned to handle the keystone this spring.
Update: Nick Groke of The Athletic reports that Murphy is scheduled to meet with a hand specialist this week, as the Rockies are concerned he could have tendon damage in addition to the fracture. If that’s the case, his recovery could take several weeks.
