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The San Francisco Giants released some bad, albeit expected news on Thursday, ahead of their series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers: Darin Ruf is headed to the 10-day Injured List.
He’ll be replaced on the roster by outfielder LaMonte Wade Jr., who has been recalled from AAA Sacramento.
#SFGiants manager Gabe Kapler says Darin Ruf has been placed on the 10-day injured list and LaMonte Wade Jr. will be active tonight.
— Kerry Crowley (@KO_Crowley) May 27, 2021
Ruf was injured during the Giants 5-4 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Wednesday, after taking a wide turn at first on a single. He was able to make it back to first base, but immediately left the game.
It comes just a day after the Giants placed Brandon Belt on the IL due to an oblique strain. Ruf figured to get the bulk of the playing time at first with Belt sidelined, but now the Giants will have to test their depth.
That likely means a lot of Jason Vosler, who had his first career home run after replacing Ruf. It could also mean some Wade, as the outfielder has played some innings at first this season.
For now, at least, it seems that it won’t mean Buster Posey.
Kapler still isn’t eager to use Posey at 1B, no current plans to put him there. But doesn’t mean they won’t consider someday.
— Susan Slusser (@susanslusser) May 27, 2021
It’s unfortunate timing for Ruf — who joins Belt, Wilmer Flores, and Tommy La Stella on the IL — as he has been swinging an incredibly hot bat lately.
This is Wade’s third time being recalled so far this season. He’s appeared in five games, and has hit 3-11 with 1 double, 1 walk, and 6 strikeouts. In 56 Minor League plate appearances he’s hitting .233/.411/.419, with more walks (13) than strikeouts (12). The Giants now have five left-handed hitting outfielders on the active roster.