San Francisco Giants first baseman Brandon Belt is dealing with a heel injury which has put his Opening Day status in question as MLB prepares to kick off later this month.
Belt was reported to have been in a walking boot and not participating in team workout activities at AT&T Park in preparation for the Giants’ Opening Day on July 23rd against long-time rival Los Angeles, and manager Gabe Kapler confirmed on Wednesday that the veteran first baseman was dealing with a heel issue.
The 2014 All-Star and two-time World Series champion had a disappointing 2019 season which was marred by nagging injuries through which he played, batting only .234 with 17 home runs and 57 RBI.
Giants manager Gabe Kapler, who took over this winter, was not ready to say whether or not the lefty hitting first baseman would miss the beginning of the season or not. While he isn’t currently practicing or playing in intrasquad games, it’s possible that the injury will heal up enough for him to take the field on Opening Day.
If not, San Francisco would have to rely on a backup option such as Wilmer Flores or Pablo Sandoval to cover the position until Belt is healthy and ready to go.
