Ian Desmond injury update: Out until late April

Ian Desmond was hit by a pitch on Sunday, and now a timetable for his return to action has been given.

During Sunday’s Cactus League game against the Cincinnati Reds, Colorado Rockies first baseman Ian Desmond was hit in the left hand by a pitch. He of course left the game immediately, and was later diagnosed with a fractured hand.

Nick Groke of the Denver Post reported Desmond will have surgery on Wednesday to repair the second metacarpal bone in his hand. He’s obviously facing a fairly extended absence, and exactly when the Rockies will get their biggest offseason signing back is now clearer.

During an appearance on KOA NewsRadio on Tuesday, Rockies manager Bud Back said Desmond will have a metal plate inserted into his wrist with an expected return in late April. General manager Jeff Bridich backed up that timetable, telling ESPN’s Jim Bowden that Desmond will be sidelined for six weeks.

After a couple disappointing seasons at shortstop with the Washington Nationals, Desmond became a serviceable outfielder for the Texas Rangers last season. He also, and more importantly, bounced back offensively with a .285/.335/.446 slash-line, 22 home runs, 86 RBI, 107 runs scored and 21 stolen bases. A move to Coors Field as his home park is obviously a promising development for Desmond to have a repeat in 2017.

Desmond is going to make another position switch in Colorado, this time to becoming a first baseman. In his absence veteran Mark Reynolds is like to get most of the playing time, with 29-year old Stephen Cardullo probably getting his second taste of the big leagues as the primary backup.

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The Rockies have been hit by injuries and health concerns this spring, but Desmond’s surgery and recovery should be fairly cut and dry barring any setbacks. Some rust can be expected upon his return, his absence should not go longer than expected.