Giants outfielder Austin Slater underwent surgical procedure on his proper elbow right now, the staff introduced (as reported by Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle). He had a bone spur eliminated behind his elbow, in addition to an ulnar nerve transposition to assist relieve nerve ache. His rehab ought to take about 4 months, which implies the 30-year-old could be able to go subsequent spring.
Slater took a few journeys to the injured record this season with left hamstring strains, and he additionally missed time in September dealing with vertigo. Certainly, he has developed a little bit of a fame as an injury-prone participant lately, spending time on the IL with hand, wrist, and groin accidents, in addition to a concussion. His elbow points have additionally triggered him hassle for years, though he has been in a position to play by way of the ache. Whereas he missed time this previous spring coaching with elbow neuritis, he has by no means gone on the IL with an elbow harm.
One of many longest-tenured gamers on the Giants roster, Slater made his debut for San Francisco in 2017. He broke out in the course of the shortened 2020 season, slashing .282/.408/.506 in 31 video games, and he has remained an above-average hitter within the years since, albeit in a platoon position. During the last three seasons, he has posted a 114 wRC+, largely as a result of his wonderful efficiency towards left-handed pitching. The veteran can be a flexible defender, able to taking part in all three outfield positions, plus first base in a pinch.
Slater will likely be arbitration-eligible for the fourth and remaining time this winter and is projected to earn $3.6MM subsequent 12 months. He’s set to succeed in free company the next offseason, and with a wholesome and pain-free elbow, he’ll hope to place up a powerful stroll 12 months in 2024.
