Jeimer Candelario, the Cincinnati Reds infielder, exited his winter league game on Monday night due to an injury. After getting off to a solid start with the Toros del Este in the Dominican Winter League, Candelario appeared in his fifth game, playing for the third consecutive night. He grounded out twice, but it was his final play in the 4th inning that caused concern. He lunged to the bag awkwardly during his final stride and immediately showed signs of discomfort. While his reaction wasn’t one of severe pain, it was clear he had felt something.
After the play, Candelario quickly bent over to remove his shin guard, which typically signals preparation to continue playing, suggesting that the injury may not have been severe. However, with only six games left in the regular season, it’s unclear whether he will play again before their Christmas break or the start of the playoffs on December 27th.
In another winter league highlight, former Reds pitchers Johnny Cueto and Lisalverto Bonilla faced off over the weekend. Both pitched solidly for five innings, allowing only one run. However, Cueto’s team, Escogido, lost 6-2 after his bullpen allowed five additional runs.