Los Angeles Dodgers update confusing Hanley Ramirez injury

Sep 12, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Hanley Ramirez (13) throws to first base during the game against the San Francisco Giants at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /

The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced that Hanley Ramirez irritated a nerve in his back and is expected back sometime next week.

Update on @HanleyRamirez: Irritated nerve in his back. Hanley is expected to be available to play next week. #Dodgers
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) September 14, 2013

ESPN originally reported that Ramirez was removed from the game yesterday against the San Francisco Giants with a mild left hamstring strain in the fifth inning. Dodgers skipper Don Mattingly did not seem to concerned yesterday.

"“I think he’s OK,” Mattingly said. “He gets tight during games and he always says he’s fine. It’s just one of those where I was feeling like we couldn’t take the risk right there with him.”"

Obviously there seems to be some miscommunication between Ramirez, Mattingly, the doctors, and the team. I am not sure how you mix up a hamstring tug with back pain but either way, the Dodgers can ill-afford to lose Ramirez for any extended length of time heading into the postseason. Many people want to point to Yasiel Puig as the catalyst for the Dodgers turn-around this season but it would never have happened without the play of Hanley.

If Hanley comes back I am predicting a 3-2 National League Series win over the Braves and a trip to the World Series for the Dodgers this year. That lineup is incredible and is only bettered by their amazing pitching staff.

Home/Los Angeles Dodgers