Nelson Cruz leaves early with bruised quad

Jul 30, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers right fielder Nelson Cruz (17) scores on a wild pitch by Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher C.J. Wilson (33) during the third inning at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

As if the news surrounding Nelson Cruz wasn’t already big enough, the Texas Rangers outfielder is apparently injured, as well.

Cruz, a noted member of the Biogenesis investigation, was lifted from Tuesday night’s 14-11 win early as a result of a reported left quad bruise. He was removed for a pinch-runner in the 8th inning, but it was apparent that the damage was incurred in the 3rd inning when Cruz was struck by an errant throw as he ran to 1st base to beat out a ground ball.

It isn’t exactly surprise to see Cruz banged up a bit (cut to any Rangers fan nodding), but he has actually been pretty productive this season. The right-fielder has a .271/.334/.501 slash line for the season, and his 24 home runs have certainly helped Texas stay in the hunt for a playoff spot in the American League.

As news of potential suspensions for players named on Biogenesis lists bubbles over, Cruz’s status was already up in the air. However, with the ultra-powerful MLBPA ready to appeal any suspension that isn’t agreed on as a plea bargain, Cruz could easily be available for the duration of the 2013 season. That makes this new injury all the more critical, and while it appears to be minor, nothing should be ruled out for the somewhat brittle Cruz.

Stay tuned.

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