Henderson Alvarez Has Infection, Will Miss Start

Sep 29, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Henderson Alvarez (37) delivers a pitch during the ninth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Marlins Ballpark. The Marlins won 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Joe Frisaro, a blogger for MLB.com is reporting that Miami Marlins’ starting pitcher Henderson Alvarez has an infection in his shin that will prevent him from making his scheduled start on Sunday against the Washington Nationals in Viera, Florida. Apparently he required a doctor to drain the infection early today.

While any injury is never “good” news, this doesn’t seem to be too serious. Spring training is all about being cautious when it comes to aches and pains, and this is no exception. Infections can be painful and I am sure that they will give Alvarez all the rest that he needs to keep him ready for opening week. Here is Mike Redmond on the matter:

"“He’s obviously down for a few days,” manager Mike Redmond said. “He had to have it cleaned out. We’re expecting him to be fine in a couple of days. He’s probably out at least for three or four days.”"

Last year, Alvarez was forced to start the season on the disabled list due to a sore shoulder, so I am sure that one of his goals this spring training is to be healthy coming out of it. I would still look for Alvarez to be the number 3 starter headed out of camp, and I am excited to see if he can build on that incredible final game of the season last year.

We will continue to monitor the situation and keep you up to date on all the latest reports from Marlins’ camp.