Martin stayed in the game for a couple more innings, but had to depart when it was his turn to bat. Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
HOUSTON — The health of center fielder Leonys Martin is the first item on the Texas Rangers’ mind heading into Tuesday night’s game at Houston, attempting to win their second in row over the Astros.
Martin left Monday’s game with a sprained left wrist after diving for a line drive in the third inning off the bat of Houston’s Jose Altuve. Martin stayed in the game for a couple more innings, but had to depart when it was his turn to bat.
“When I grabbed my bat, it was a tough moment,” said Martin. “I said, ‘Skip, I can’t swing.'”
After the game, Martin said, “I’m in a lot of pain right now.”
X-rays were negative and manager Jeff Banister listed Martin as day-to-day.
Delino DeShields doubled in his first at-bat after replacing Martin and walked and scored the tying run in the top of the ninth inning.
“I feel comfortable with him out there in center if Martin can’t go,” Banister said.
Martin, who had batted leadoff all year, was dropped to the eighth spot in the order for Monday’s game and Shin-Soo Choo moved up to leadoff. Choo doubled to open the game.
