Victor Martinez diagnosed with irregular heartbeat
By Trey Daubert
Victor Martinez has been diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat. Additional details are not available at this time.
The Detroit Tigers received some bad news at a time where they struggle to stick in AL Central race. Designated hitter Victor Martinez was found to have an irregular heartbeat that could keep him sidelined for an extended period of time. Manager Brad Ausmus gave the report of Martinez’s condition Friday.
Tigers beat writer Anthony Fenech first reported the news:
Victor Martinez was diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat, Tigers manager Brad Ausmus said.
— anthony fenech (@anthonyfenech) June 16, 2017
Martinez will be placed on the 10-day disabled list due to his condition. The veteran switch-hitting slugger left Thursday’s game against the Rays early due to feeling symptoms from the ailment. Detroit was able to defeat Tampa Bay 5-3 following the early exit from Martinez. He is expected to undergo further testing on Saturday.
Martinez, 38, did spend the night in the hospital and has not been released yet. V-Mart was off to a mediocre start to his 2017 season slashing a batting line of .261/.337/.376. Martinez’s power numbers are down from a year ago as he has only managed to hit five home runs and 10 doubles.
John Hicks was recalled from Triple-A Toledo to take Martinez’s place on the 25-man roster. The middle of the Tigers order has really struggled to find their way. Miguel Cabrera has managed to hit just six home runs while J.D. Martinez is just starting to get into his groove after missing time with an injury.
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The Tigers come into Friday in third place in the AL Central standings. Detroit holds a record of 31-34 and will need to figure out a way to replace Martinez’s thump in the middle of the lineup. The Tigers could be a prime seller at the trade deadline if the team falters in the absence of Martinez.