Whit Merrifield has a fractured foot according to multiple reports. Although that is bad news given that the initial reports last night that his X-ray was negative, the CT scan he also had sdid confirm that he has a fracture.
Merrifield has a fracture in his left foot. Doctors told him six weeks last night. But they are now thinking he may be able to play during next weekend’s series against the Dodgers.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) September 7, 2024
There is where things get weird because reporters, including MLB.com’s Mark Bowman said that although doctors have given a six week recovery time there is believe he could return next weekend. Those are two quite different timelines. Six weeks would end his regular season.
Additional context from Grant McAuley added that Merrifield’s return could be about pain management.
#Braves Whit Merrifield said X-ray didn’t show a fracture – CT & MRI did.
Initial prognosis was 6-week recovery, but he saw a foot specialist who indicated he could be back sooner and simply have to manage pain.
Merrifield said he hopes to return by Dodgers series if possible.
— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) September 7, 2024
Merrifield fouled a ball off his foot in last night’s game and was replaced by Luke Williams, who is in the line-up tonight playing second base.
Updates:
Bowman follow-up his initial posts with additional details that Merrifield has been told by doctors that he can not do further damage to his foot.
When the CT scan showed a fracture last night, the thought was Merrifield would miss 6-8 weeks. But when a foot specialist looked at it today, he said Merrifield can’t further damage his foot if he continues to play. So, if the pain is tolerable next weekend, he could play
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) September 7, 2024
The AJC’s Gabe Burns and other reporters have followed up with news of other Braves players who could see time in Merrifield’s absence, according to Braves manager Brian Snitker.
In addition to Luke Williams, Eli White and Ramon Laureano could be infield options with Merrifield sidelined, Snit said.
— Gabe Burns (@GabeBurnsAJC) September 7, 2024
Travis d’Arnaud also has limited experience at second base, but without a third catcher on the roster, he is unlikely to see action. Never say never with the way this season has gone.
The 2024 Atlanta Braves, ya’ll.
