Austin Barnes’ big toe has sent him back to the disabled list.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have placed backup catcher Austin Barnes on the disabled list with a fractured left big toe, the organization reported Monday. To replace him, LA has recalled catcher Hunter Feduccia.
Barnes left the Dodgers’ 9-2 victory over the Atlanta Braves in the fifth inning on Sunday, and manager Dave Roberts was not optimistic afterward. He told reporters that he’d “be shocked” if Barnes didn’t end up on the IL.
“Very high,” Roberts said, describing his level of concern. “He doesn’t come out of games.”
Barnes is dealing with his second big toe ailment this year. He was first placed on the injured list on August 19 after being hit by a pitch against the St. Louis Cardinals. He spent the least amount of time on the IL before rejoining the team. According to Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register, x-rays now reveal that the fracture is in a different location than before.
With only 13 games remaining in the regular season, Barnes’ 2024 campaign could come to an end, though it’s unclear how long the injury will keep him out. If this is the conclusion of his season, Barnes will have a.261 average in 52 games while backing up everyday starter Will Smith.
Catcher Hunter Feduccia will get his chance with the Dodgers
Feduccia was already on the 40-man roster, so if Barnes is out for the season, the third-stringer can make the Dodgers’ postseason team.
He just had three career at-bats but spent the better part of seven seasons in the Minor Leagues. In 82 games at Triple-A Oklahoma City this year, he batted.284 with an.837 OPS.
But let’s face it: a backup catcher isn’t coming to the Major Leagues to rip the cover from the ball. This is especially true in the postseason, where he is unlikely to start and will serve largely as injury insurance or if Roberts wants to replace Smith with a pinch runner at some point. Feduccia is best known for his defense, which includes an arm capable of throwing out major league baserunners.
Feduccia has been on the Dodgers’ roster for 12 games, but has only appeared in two. He has one hit in three career at-bats, a single against Drew Rasmussen on August 25.
With Smith playing half a game on what should have been a day off, Roberts may try to get Feduccia back in the lineup in the coming days. If not, Thursday in Miami looks like a viable choice for a day game following a night game.
