Shane Says He’s OK But What About His Hand?
By DAN STAMM
Updated 5:33 PM EDT, Wed, Nov 4, 2009
Shane Victorino’s bruised hand could be a huge factor the rest of the way in the World Series.
It was scary moment Monday night when the Phillies All-Star centerfielder was clocked by a pitch right on his throwing hand.
Victorino was attempting to bunt an A.J. Burnett pitch in the first inning of Game 5 when he was hit by the rising fastball. The ball clanked off Victorino’s right hand, which was clenched around the handle of his bat.
The Flyin’ Hawaiian collapsed to the ground in obvious pain. He was slow to take first base but remained in the game despite having some trouble with his swollen hand.
“Hitting was difficult. I couldn't get my grip,” Victorino said.
After the game Victorino quickly cleared up whether he thought the high-and-inside 93-mph fastball was thrown in retaliation for Phillies pitchers beaning Yankee slugger Alex Rodriguez in Games 3 and 4.
“A.J. apologized when I got to first, so it wasn't retaliation, I can tell you that. Everything's fine. I definitely feel great.”
Suga Shane might be convinced he is good to go but the Game 5 scare had fans worried if he would be OK for Game 6.
Nothing was broken -- X-rays were negative but Victorino was still taken out of Game 5 after seven innings so the concerns could be valid.
Shane cleared everything up -- he plans to play in Game 5, according to MLB.com.
The off day (along with some ice) should allow for the swelling to go down so expect the hand to be better but not 100 percent Wednesday night as the Phils try to stay alive in the Bronx.
Copyright Associated Press / NBC Philadelphia
First Published: Nov 3, 2009 1:33 PM EDT
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