Chase DeLauter says he "feels good" after a concerning foot injury during the Cleveland Guardians' opening road trip.
Chase DeLauter quickly limped off the field after taking a foul ball off his foot during the second game of the Cleveland Guardians’ series against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday.
Given DeLauter’s history, especially the past injuries he suffered to that same foot, many braced themselves for the worst.
Thankfully, Stephen Vogt gave an encouraging update on DeLauter after the game, saying his X-rays were negative, and Wednesday was already a planned off day, giving the rookie two full days to rest up. DeLauter was even available to come off the bench and pinch hit on Wednesday, but the opportunity never presented itself.
When the Guardians announced their starting lineup for the home opener on Friday, DeLauter was right back in the mix, hitting second as the team’s designated hitter.
DeLauter said his foot feels well enough to play the field, but he’s looking forward to making an impact as the DH.
“I’ve been running around. Came in yesterday [Wednesday], and did a little bit of work. Yeah, it feels good,” said DeLauter ahead of Friday’s game.
"I feel good, I don't believe they'd throw me out there if it was still kind of a toss-up. No harm in taking the DH day and getting an extra day. I believe I'll be in the outfield as soon as they want to put me out there."
Mar 28, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Cleveland Guardians designated hitter Chase DeLauter (24) celebrates while rounding the bases after hitting a two-run home run during the tenth inning against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn ImagesOut of everyone in Cleveland’s lineup, DeLauter is off to the best start of anyone in the lineup. Through his first 22 at-bats, DeLauter owns a 1.122 OPS, and of course, made franchise and MLB history with his four home runs in three games.
It's a long season, and with DeLauter's injury history, giving him an extra day off the field is certainly the safe move for the Guardians.
For as bad as the injury initially looked on Tuesday, it’s great to see that DeLauter is right back in the lineup for the home opener and for a packed Progressive Field to sing “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” as he steps up to the plate for his first regular-season plate appearance at home.
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