Rangers 3B Beltre has strained back
TORONTO — Texas Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre left the opening game of the American League Division Series against the Toronto Blue Jays on Thursday after experiencing lower back stiffness.
An MRI on Beltre’s back showed no structural damage. He is considered day to day with a strained back going into Friday afternoon’s Game 2 of the series.
Beltre had an RBI single to give the Rangers a 2-0 lead and appeared to be in some discomfort at first base. He stayed in the game until designated hitter Prince Fielder grounded out to end the third inning.
Beltre left the field gingerly and was replaced at third base by infielder Hanser Alberto.
The Rangers opened the series with a 5-3 win.