9-News: 40.053 – Pena Healing On-Target

[RonCo]

Rookie Shortstop To Return Next Week?


YS9 faithful received optimistic news today in the form of an update from team doctor Julian Carmona, who noted that young sensation, shortstop Luis Pena, has been healing from a tough quad tear at a better than expected pace. “He may even be ready a few days earlier than expected,” Carmona said.

Ah, to be young and vital.

Pena, who was injured running the bases on July 17th, has been a park plug for most of the year both in the field (+99 ZR) and at the plate (.308/.366/.465). His 19 steals have come at the cost of 10 caught stealing, but overall he’d registered an impressive 3.0 WAR prior to his injury—making him a dark horse contender for the 2040 Gillstrom award.

“We’re really looking forward to getting him back,” said manager Bill Inkster. “He’s the kind of guy who focuses on the details, and makes everyone better.”

Assuming Pena is ready on time, one wonders if 3B Alejandro Rodriguez, a solid if unspectacular infielder who was called up to replace him, might become trade bait as the deadline approaches.