WASHINGTON — The Nationals are adjusting to life after Bryce Harper. They might have to get used to life without Trea Turner, too.
In the bottom of the first inning of a much anticipated game against the Philadelphia Phillies that was billed as Harper’s homecoming, Turner exited early with an apparent finger injury.
The injury occurred with one out and nobody on, when the Nationals speedster tried to bunt on an 0-1 offering from Phillies starter Zach Eflin. Eflin’s 92 mph fastball appeared to hit Turner on the right index finger, causing the Washington shortstop to fall back onto the ground.
Although it was unclear whether the ball hit Turner’s bat in addition to his finger, the pitch was ruled a foul-ball strike by plate umpire Paul Emmel.
After being tended to by team medical staff, Turner walked into the dugout under his own power. He was replaced by utility man Wilmer Difo, who completed the at-bat by striking out against Eflin.
It’s not the first time that Turner has suffered an injury after being struck by a pitch. In June 2017, he suffered a broken wrist when he was hit by a fastball from Cubs reliever Pedro Strop. Turner missed two months as a result of the injury.
A former first round pick of the San Diego Padres, Turner was acquired by Washington in a 2015 trade. The following year, he hit .342, stole 33 bases in 73 games, and finished second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting.
Turner was off to a fast start this season, going 5-for-13 with two homers and four stolen bases over the Nats’ first three games. His three steals on Opening Day tied a major league record. Against the Mets on Sunday, he went deep twice, including a walk-off homer that gave Washington a 6-5 win.
Washington has already been hit hard by injuries, losing veteran utility man Howie Kendrick (hamstring) and outfielder Michael A. Taylor (hip, knee) during spring training. If Turner misses extended time, Difo would probably take over as the starting shortstop.