The Washington Nationals have been dealt yet another early season blow. MVP candidate Juan Soto was surprisingly placed on the 10-day injured list with a strained left shoulder, according to Jesse Dougherty of the Washington Post.
Soto was initially in the starting lineup for Tuesday’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals, batting second. But, the Nationals updated the lineup minutes prior to first-pitch with Soto removed.
The Nationals have recalled outfielder Yadiel Hernandez in a corresponding move.
The 22-year old Soto had played in each of the Nationals first 14 games of the season. Hitting .300/.410/.460, Soto has already had a walk-off single and two-home run game.
However, he has struggled as of late. He was 1-of-13 at the plate in his last four games.
Outside of his recent slump, there was no obvious sign of any ailment for Soto. He wouldn’t be eligible to return for the IL until at least Apr. 30, which means he will miss at least seven games, according to Mark Zuckerman of MASN Sports.
Despite their 5-9 record, Washington is fourth in MLB in batting average and ninth in OPS. But the loss of Soto will be a huge blow to its offense just as its pitching has struggled mightily while dealing with a number of injuries.
Juan Soto joins starting pitchers Stephen Strasburg (shoulder) and Jon Lester (COVID-19) on the injured list. Relievers Wander Suero (oblique) and Will Harris (hand) are also on the IL. Reliever Luis Avilan is out for the remainder of the season and will undergo Tommy John surgery.
