Rooker exits during first-inning at-bat with flank discomfort
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NEW YORK – After an incredible run of good health throughout Spring Training, the Athletics were dealt a tough blow on Thursday with an early exit by Brent Rooker.
During his first at-bat of the game against the Yankees at Yankee Stadium in the first inning, Rooker fouled off an 0-1 pitch from Ryan Weathers and immediately reached for his right side/hip area with a look of discomfort. After a quick discussion with trainer Jeff Collins, Rooker walked off the field and was replaced mid-at-bat by Lawrence Butler.
The A's described the injury as right flank discomfort.
It goes without saying that losing Rooker for any amount of time would be difficult. He busted out of his slow start to the season with a dramatic two-homer game on Sunday, and the two-time All-Star slugger remains a key cog that makes this offense go.
Beyond his offensive presence, Rooker is the unofficial A’s captain and leader for this young playoff-aspiring ballclub.