Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop O’Neal Cruz has suffered a fractured ankle. Bae Ji-hwan’s business trip opportunities are expected to increase.
In the 2023 major league home game against the Chicago White Sox held at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA on the 10th (Korean time), Cruz started as the first batter shortstop and recorded no hits and one walk in two at-bats.
In the bottom of the 6th, Cruz walked on base and succeeded in stealing second base. Following this, he went to first and third base safely with a hit by Brian Reynolds. At bat came Kibrian Hayes. Hayes sent a ground ball to the third baseman. Cruz ran home, but Yoann Moncada’s throw was quick. Catcher Sevi Zavala caught the ball and tagged him.
However, a problem occurred during base play. Cruz collided with Zavala while sliding and injured his ankle. After complaining of pain, he was eventually helped and left the field. Bae Ji-hwan filled Cruise’s vacancy from defense in the top of the 7th inning.
The American media’The Athletic’ said, “Cruz was immediately taken an X-ray. After the game, manager Derek Shelton said that Cruise’s left ankle was fractured. Pittsburgh did not disclose anything about where Cruise was taken for examination or treatment.” said.
Cruise is out of action due to an ankle injury. Cruise’s goal of 30 homers and 30 stolen bases this season could be huge. This season, Krju recorded 8 hits, 1 home run, 3 steals, 4 RBIs, 7 runs, a batting average of 0.250, and an OPS of 0.750. “Losing Cruz is a huge blow to our team,” Hayes said. “He’s our leadoff and our starting shortstop. He affects the game in many ways, including his range, his presence on the field, and his base play.”
Cruz’s vacancy is expected to be filled by Rodolfo Castro. ‘The Athletic’ said, “Castro is expected to replace Cruz at shortstop. 메이저놀이터 This means Bae Ji-hwan will receive more playing time as a second baseman.” Last season, he made 17 starts at shortstop.”
“It hurts not to see my teammates by my side for a while, but I will be ready no matter what happens,” Castro said.
Bae Ji-hwan recorded 7 hits, 1 home run, 2 steals, 3 RBIs, 5 runs, a batting average of 0.250, and an OPS of 0.705 this season. In the last 8 against the White Sox, he made his first major league three-hit game. He also started the 9th game, but went 0-for-4 and the 10th game went 0-for-1, going silent.