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Torey Lovullo: OF Yasmany Tomas has an oblique strain, timetable to return uncertain

The Diamondbacks manager sheds light on the injury that’s kept Tomas out of the lineup of late.

The Diamondbacks OF depth is taking a hit with three players dealing with injuries. Socrates Brito broke a finger sliding into home plate head-first, which prompted manager Torey Lovullo to chew out his team after another player slid head-first into 1st base. AJ Pollock is battling a minor groin strain, which isn’t likely to affect his availability for Opening Day. Today we now know what’s been plaguing Tomas this week.

The Diamondbacks are prepared for such a run of injuries with the additions of Jeremy Hazelbaker and Gregor Blanco in the offseason. Blanco has looked solid in Spring at the plate and in the field. Based on his playing time, Blanco is a near-lock for a roster spot and could be in the lineup on Opening Day. Another player who benefits from Tomas’ absence would be Hazelbaker. Hazelbaker is a lefty with good power and speed, even though it doesn’t translate as much on the field as you’d like.

Unlike in 2016, the Diamondbacks do have options in the OF for injuries which means Tomas starting on the DL shouldn’t hurt the team that much. We’ll see if any outfielder candidates are able to take advantage of Tomas’ absence.