SerpApi.Org
The Baltimore Orioles are taking a cautious approach with rookie catcher Samuel Basallo ahead of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Boston Red Sox. Interim manager Craig Albernaz said Basallo's availability remains to be determined after the 21-year-old injured his left knee earlier this week.
Basallo exited Monday's 6-5 loss to Boston after tweaking his left knee while diving back to first base on a pickoff attempt. Although initial imaging showed no structural damage, the Orioles are evaluating how he responds before deciding whether he can play in either game.
Albernaz's update suggests Baltimore is focused on avoiding a setback rather than rushing one of its top young contributors back into the lineup during a demanding day.
Basallo has become one of Baltimore's most productive rookies this season. Through 86 games, he is batting .241 with a .305 on-base percentage, .450 slugging percentage, 16 home runs and 46 RBIs.
The knee issue is his first significant injury concern of the season. Keeping him healthy has become increasingly important as Baltimore continues to develop one of baseball's top young catching tandems alongside Adley Rutschman.
Baltimore enters the doubleheader at 49-52, sitting fourth in the American League East. The Orioles trail the division-leading Tampa Bay Rays by 9.5 games while trying to slow a Boston club that has won 14 straight games.
With the trade deadline approaching, the Orioles are balancing the urgency of the standings with Basallo's long-term health. Waiting another day if necessary could prove more valuable than risking one of the organization's top young players in the middle of a doubleheader.
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