Matt Chapman spent weeks holding out hope he could get back on the field for the San Francisco Giants. That hope appears to be running out.
Chapman will travel to Philadelphia for a second opinion with Dr. William Meyers, but told reporters Friday he’s “pretty sure” surgery is coming Tuesday, an outcome that matches the evaluation already given by San Francisco’s own team doctors.
Chapman Reacts to Getting Clarity on the Injury
GettyMatt Chapman of the San Francisco Giants.
Chapman hasn’t played since June 30. His attempted return to game action was halted last weekend after he felt discomfort while running. He revealed he’s been dealing with both a hernia and a muscle tear on the right side of his abdomen, issues he’d been playing through for much of the season.
“It’s nice to know (what’s wrong),” Chapman said. “But it sucks because it probably means my season is over. I was looking forward to getting back out there and playing.”
No Reason to Rush With Giants Out of Contention
Chapman called the situation disappointing. But he acknowledged there’s little reason for the Giants to push a return right now. He played through abdominal discomfort for most of the season. With San Francisco sitting 19 games under .500, the organization has shifted fully into evaluation mode for its younger players.
Chapman’s absence adds to a growing list of infield injuries for San Francisco. Backup third baseman Casey Schmitt also underwent surgery recently that’s likely to end his own season. Marcelo Mayer, the 23-year-old acquired at the trade deadline from the Boston Red Sox and once regarded as a top prospect, is set to begin a rehab assignment next week. He went through a full pregame workout Friday.
Who Fills In at Third Base
GettyTony Vitello of the San Francisco Giants.
With Chapman sidelined, San Francisco has continued starting Christian Koss at third base. Osleivis Basabe is also available as an option. Triple-A prospect Parks Harber could factor into the mix later this year. The organization may hold off adding him to the 40-man roster, though, given the possibility of an upcoming labor dispute. Doing so would prevent the team from contacting him during a lockout. It could also keep him from playing in minor league games if those resume before major league play does.
Final Word for the Giants
Matt Chapman’s season appears to be ending the way it’s largely been defined, playing through pain until his body simply wouldn’t allow it anymore. Tuesday’s expected surgery closes the book on a difficult year.
San Francisco has already turned its attention toward evaluating what comes next. For Chapman, that means a long winter of recovery before another shot arrives.
A tough year, closing quietly.
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