Brandon Belt will be watching from the dugout when the San Francisco Giants play the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS, marking the first time the two rivals have faced off in the postseason. That’s not at all fair, but baseball isn’t fair, and the Dodgers, absent Clayton Kershaw and likely Max Muncy, will offer no sympathies.
It’s only been a week and a half since Belt had his thumb fractured by a pitch that ran inside and hit him as he attempted a bunt, but the All-Star first baseman — who has been one of the best hitters in all of baseball over the past two seasons — is eyeing an early return.
Speaking with reporters after a Wednesday practice, Belt said that he is hoping to return for the NLCS, should the Giants make it there. If the Giants beat the Dodgers in their five-game series, they’ll face the Milwaukee Brewers or Atlanta Braves in a seven-game series starting next week or weekend. Yet while Belt expressed hope for a positive outcome and a return this season, he also acknowledged that it’s soon to know one way or the other.
Brandon Belt said his goal is to return for NLCS, but it’s too soon to know if that’s possible. The fracture is in an awkward spot so it’s hard to hide when holding a bat.
— Alex Pavlovic (@PavlovicNBCS) October 6, 2021
Fingers — and thumbs — crossed.
Old, random MCC article for you to read
The Giants aren’t really thinking about keeping Michael Morse, are they? (Aug. 29, 2014 — Grant Brisbee)
Have a wonderful Thursday, friends. Beat LA.