That's What Cheesehead - 00.05 - Bolt Injured. Miss 2 Months

[7teen]

After an outstanding 1999 campaign from Bolt Vanderhugen, the Wolves superstar slugger had big expectations heading into the 2000 season. Bolt hit .294/.353/.574 a year ago with a career high 49 homeruns and 128 RBI. The 128 RBI was the second most in Bolt's career. He ranked first in the league in homeruns a year ago as well as in the top 10 in total bases, RBI, runs scored, OPS, and a handful of other categories. After another disappointing exit in the post-season, Bolt seemed prime to help lead the Wolves to that elusive first title.

While the team struggled somewhat in the spring, compiling barely over a .500 record, Bolt was red hot. In 23 games, Bolt hit 7 homeruns, drove in 14 RBI, and put up a .979 OPS. This season he was expected to surpass 350 homeruns, putting him on pace to crack the 400 barrier by next season. But all of that will be on hold. All will be on hold because on April 9, in a game against division rival Omaha, Bolt singled in the first inning but landed awkwardly on the first base bag. The awkward landing resulted in Bolt rupturing his achilles tendon on his right foot. Bolt underwent minor surgery the following day. Team trainers expect Bolt to miss anywhere from two to three months as a result of the injury.

"It's a tough loss for the club" said General Manager Chris Wilson, "but I think we'll be ok. We have a deep offensive team, just like last year. I think we'll be able to pick up the slack in other areas. Don't get me wrong, losing Bolt's bat in the middle of our lineup will hurt, but we have enough big names and powerful sluggers in their that should allow us to stay up at the top of the Midwest standings until Bolt returns to us in June or July. We'll be fine!"

The Wolves opened the first week of the season with a 5-3 record, good enough for first place in the JL Midwest division.

[scottsdale_joe]

Tough loss.
2-3 months with an achilles problem isn't too bad.