Carlos Gonzalez Injury: Updates on Rockies Star's Hand and Return

Colorado Rockies All-Star outfielder Carlos Gonzalez exited a June 21 game against the Milwaukee Brewers with a left hand sprain and has yet to return to the lineup.

Continue for updates.   

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Gonzalez Out for 3rd Straight Game, Brandon Barnes in RF

Thursday, June 25

Dargan Southard of MLB.com confirmed Gonzalez's absence for the contest against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Gonzalez's hand sprain is believed to be minor, but the outfielder is proceeding with caution.

"It's going to be a day-to-day deal—one or two days. With the hand, it's always a little concerning, but we feel like it's not too serious," Rockies manager Walt Weiss said, per Thomas Harding of MLB.com. "This one's different. It's in a different area. I don't think it's anything that's chronic."

Barnes will fill in for Gonzalez in right field for the time being, per Nick Groke of the Denver Post. As ESPN Stats & Info highlighted recently, Gonzalez had been bouncing back from a slow start to the 2015 campaign:

That makes the timing of this injury all the more unfortunate. At least Gonzalez figures to be back in action soon, since initial reports suggest he has a short timetable for a return to the field.

Gonzalez's presence and production in the lineup are vital if the Rockies intend to engineer a turnaround amid a tough season to date. If his injury keeps him out of the lineup for an extended period, the Rockies offense will take a major hit as it attempts to carry a pitching staff that has struggled all season.