Oblique Strain Expected to Keep Patrick Bailey Out for Short Period, SF Giants Report

The Giants faced a major setback on Tuesday with Patrick Bailey being placed on the injured list, yet manager Bob Melvin remains hopeful for a swift recovery. Following the Giants’ 4-1 victory over the White Sox, Melvin expressed optimism, stating, “It’s tough to say, but I’m pretty optimistic that on that 10th day, he should be ready to go,” based on current reports and Bailey’s condition. “We were a little bit cautious with this one.”

Bailey’s MRI results on Tuesday showed a strained right oblique. Before his MRI, Bailey described the injury as “very, very minor” and indicated that his absence was more precautionary. He first felt discomfort in his right side after taking left-handed swings before Monday’s game.

“It wasn’t really one swing in particular,” Bailey explained. “It just kind of tightened up at the end.” With Bailey being the Giants’ second-most valuable player this season, accumulating 3.8 fWAR, he could return as early as next Thursday for the final game of their road trip in Milwaukee. Typically, oblique strains have a recovery period of 4 to 6 weeks.

Melvin cautioned, “If you go out there even a game too early and you re-injure that thing, it could be a long time.” Despite Bailey’s recent struggles at the plate, his defensive skills remain invaluable. He has amassed 19 fielding runs above average, far surpassing other catchers.

In Bailey’s absence, veteran backup Curt Casali will step up. Casali has contributed, with four runs from the bottom of the lineup and effective handling of the pitching staff over the past two nights.

“(Bailey) is one of those guys that’s tough to replace,” Melvin acknowledged. “Even when he’s not swinging the bat well, his work behind the plate is crucial. But Curt’s doing a good job right now.”

To fill the void, the Giants promoted Jakson Reetz from Triple-A Sacramento, though Casali is expected to start Wednesday’s game against Logan Webb. This will mark the first time Casali has started three consecutive games since September 2022.

Casali, the 35-year-old from Walnut Creek, is prepared to take on the responsibility. “I’m just gonna have to grind,” he said. “Disappointed that Patty’s got to sit, but excited for the chance to play. Hopefully, we don’t skip a beat.”

The Giants’ winning streak continues, with Tuesday’s win marking their seventh consecutive victory with Casali as the starter, improving their record to 14-10 with him behind the plate this season.

Casali, who was informed of his starting role just hours before Monday’s game, remains ready and optimistic. “I’ll go out there and give it my best, so hopefully Webby makes it easy on me,” he said. “I feel like a young 35-year-old right now.”