Johan Camargo’s strained oblique could threaten his availability for the Braves’ opening day roster and create some uncertainty at third base.
He last played March 13 and Braves manager Brian Snitker had said Camargo might return a day or two after the Braves’ day off Tuesday. But by Monday that changed.
“I think it’s going to be longer than that,” said Snitker, whose Braves open the season March 27 against the Phillies. “I’m preparing for him not even being ready (opening day).
“I don’t know. He’s doing really good and everything’s been pointed (in the right direction), but until he starts throwing and all that stuff. ... He hasn’t took (batting practice) or anything yet.”
If Camargo isn’t ready to start the season the Braves could go with Rio Ruiz or versatile utility man Charlie Culberson as the starting third baseman until he is ready.
Camargo was cleared to take dry swings (swings without hitting baseball) on Monday and also did some throwing for the first time since the injury.
“Everything was really good. So, keep fingers crossed,” Snitker said. “If everything keeps progressing like it should. ... I think it’ll be more toward the weekend probably, might even be the exhibition games (Monday against Braves prospects and Tuesday vs. the Yankees, both at SunTrust Park) before we decide if he can or can’t (play).
“It’s really good (progress), but you want to err on the side of caution. At some point in time you’ve got to make a decision.”
Because the Braves don’t need a fifth starting pitcher until the 11th game of the season, they could carry an extra position player early. That situation might allow them to carry both Ruiz and Camargo on the opening day roster if it looks like Camargo might need to miss only a few games and not go on the disabled list.
The Braves were still hopeful – some team officials seemed optimistic – of having Camargo ready by opening day. His injury was originally announced as back tightness, but was more of an oblique (side) strain than a back injury.
Snitker initially said he hoped to have Camargo back by Tuesday or Wednesday, and if so that his availability for opening day wouldn’t be an problem since he already had 29 at-bats in 12 games before the injury.
“That’s what I was hoping for but I’m not sure now,” Snitker said Monday morning, before Camargo did some swings and throwing. “They’re just kind of going through the natural progression.”
The team’s medical staff has been careful not to clear Camargo for anything rigorous until he’s healed. They’ve tested him daily to see how he feels and whether there was any remaining discomfort.
“It’s been proven, those things take forever if you’re not careful,” Snitker said.
