Athletics' Denzel Clarke Begins Running After Injury Setback

What's Happening?

Denzel Clarke, a center fielder for the Oakland Athletics, is scheduled to start running the bases on Friday as part of his recovery process from a Grade 2 right adductor strain. Clarke has been out of action since July 22 due to the injury and experienced a setback during a rehab game with Triple-A Las Vegas on August 15. The Athletics have been cautious with Clarke's rehabilitation, but his upcoming running session could lead to a rehab assignment next week if he progresses well. This development raises the possibility of Clarke returning to play before the end of the season, although the team plans to monitor his recovery closely.

Why It's Important?

Clarke's potential return is significant for the Athletics as they look to bolster their lineup with his presence in center field. His absence has impacted the team's depth and performance, and his return could provide a much-needed boost as the season progresses. For Clarke, successfully overcoming this injury could be crucial for his career, allowing him to demonstrate his resilience and capability to contribute to the team. The Athletics' cautious approach underscores the importance of ensuring Clarke's full recovery to prevent further setbacks, which could affect both his and the team's future prospects.

What's Next?

If Clarke's running session goes smoothly, he may begin a rehab assignment next week, which would be a critical step towards his return to the major league roster. The Athletics will continue to evaluate his progress and make decisions based on his recovery trajectory. Clarke's performance during the rehab assignment will likely determine the timeline for his return to regular play. The team and fans will be watching closely to see how Clarke's recovery unfolds, as his return could influence the Athletics' strategy and performance in the remaining games of the season.