SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Jung Hoo Lee’s status for Opening Day roster is now unclear.
The Giants announced on Monday morning that Lee will undergo an MRI later today as the center fielder deals with mid-back tightness. Lee will have a follow-up with Dr. Akizuki for another exam as well.
“It hasn’t gotten any better,” said manager Bob Melvin. “Send him in, get an MRI, see what’s there.”
Melvin said the Giants will likely have the results of the MRI on Tuesday. When Melvin was asked if there was any concern that Lee might be doubtful for Opening Day, Melvin responded that he does not know until the team gets the results of the MRI.
Additionally, backup catcher Tom Murphy (mid-back disk herniation) remains rehab only at this time. Left-handed reliever Enny Romero, a non-roster invitee, is currently away from the team due to a personal issue, per Melvin.
Lee, who only played 37 games last season due to a season-ending left shoulder, was scratched from last Saturday’s starting lineup due to the back injury. At the time, Melvin said that Lee slept on it wrong and considered the injury to be minor.
“If he can play here at home, we’re fine,” Melvin said. “It’s probably gone on a little longer than we expected, but hopefully we get some good news today. Just not getting much better.”
If Lee isn’t healthy for Opening Day, outfielder Grant McCray will likely take his spot on the roster. Luis Matos is currently the favorite to win San Francisco’s fourth outfield spot, but McCray is the most logical candidate to replace Lee on the roster if he begins the season on the injured list.
Lee, who has often hit third for the Giants this spring, last appeared in a game on March 13. This spring, Lee has a .300/.400/.567 slash line with two home runs and five RBIs.