Galvis (knee) gets encouraging report after MRI

No structural damage for Reds' 2B; Colón receives callup

September 17th, 2019

CHICAGO -- When Reds second baseman described the “pop” he felt in his left knee that forced him to leave Saturday’s game in Arizona, it sounded like the worst-case scenario.

Galvis, however, underwent an MRI on Sunday, and the results revealed no structural damage -- a sigh of relief for Galvis and the Reds.

“He got a good report today. When we saw him go down, we were concerned, so it’s been really positive news since then,” manager David Bell said.

Bell also told reporters that the focus will now be on re-strengthening Galvis’ knee. Galvis will have a few more days of rest and will be re-evaluated in a few days, but with just 12 games remaining in the season, it's uncertain if Galvis will see any more game action.

The Reds' shortstop has struggled offensively after a hot August -- when he homered six times, including four with the Reds. He is sporting a .496 OPS in 14 games in September.

Colón excited after unexpected callup

Not expecting the opportunity, is happy to be with the Reds for the final weeks of the 2019 season. Cincinnati purchased Colón’s contract from Triple-A Louisville prior to Monday’s 8-2 loss to the Cubs at Wrigley Field.

“I was in Arkansas. I was hanging out with some friends and got a call from my agent,” Colón said. “I’ve been keeping up with the team, obviously, but a complete surprise.”

The 30-year-old infielder hit .300 with 10 homers and an .814 OPS in 136 games for Triple-A Louisville. Last playing in the Major Leagues in 2017, Colón was with the Royals from 2014-17 before he was claimed off waivers from the Marlins in May 2017. The Reds signed him as a free agent in December 2018 -- and he had a career .252 average in the bigs, with one home run and 25 RBIs in 142 games.

Colón entered as a pinch-hitter during the third inning Monday and was hit by a pitch from Cole Hamels in his first and only plate appearance. He then came around to score on Curt Casali's bases-loaded walk.

Colón’s arrival comes at a good time for the team, as the Reds have been banged up over the past few weeks and could use an additional infielder for depth.

“I think with [José Iglesias’] sore back and Freddy Galvis’ [knee], we didn’t know until today,” Bell said. “That was definitely part of it.”

“I think this is a time to show everybody what you can do,” Colón said. “I don’t expect anything else, but to go out there and compete.”