What's Happening?
Jordan Westburg, a third baseman for the Baltimore Orioles, is currently out of the lineup due to right ankle discomfort. He has not played since leaving Monday's game against the Boston Red Sox. The Orioles' interim manager, Tony Mansolino, expressed optimism that Westburg can avoid being placed on the 10-day injured list. Jeremiah Jackson is filling in at third base and batting second in the series opener against the Houston Astros.
Why It's Important?
Westburg's absence is significant for the Orioles as they are in the midst of a competitive series against the Astros. His potential return without needing to be placed on the injured list would be beneficial for the team, which relies on his contributions both offensively and defensively. The situation highlights the challenges teams face with player injuries during critical parts of the season, impacting team strategy and performance.
What's Next?
The Orioles will continue to monitor Westburg's condition closely, hoping for a swift recovery that allows him to return to the lineup without a stint on the injured list. The team's medical staff will likely provide ongoing assessments to determine his readiness to play. Meanwhile, Jeremiah Jackson will continue to cover third base duties, and the team may adjust their lineup strategy based on Westburg's recovery progress.