Mariners: Ty France injury not as bad as first feared

While Ty France’s injury is nothing long-term, he will still be absent from the Mariners lineup for an unspecified period of time.

The Mariners and their fans were understandably concerned when Ty France was forced to leave last Thursday’s game against the Oakland Athletics. A nasty-looking collision at first base with the A’s Sheldon Neuse had people fearing the worst.

However, on Saturday it was confirmed that France had only suffered a Grade 2 flexor strain to his left elbow. As a result he was placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to June 24.

Even though the injury is not as bad as initially feared, there has been no confirmation of a recovery timeline at this stage. Speaking to members of the media about his rehab, France said:

“Not that (the medical staff) didn’t seem as concerned — maybe because it’s my non-throwing arm it’s not as worrisome — but the biggest test is going to be swinging. If I can let go of the bat, hold onto it with that one hand with full strength, that will be when I’m cleared.”

France was also asked about the pain tolerance and if the injury was going to be able to heal this season. He said:

“I hope so. I’ve never had a flexor strain before, so I don’t know what the recovery process looks like, but hopefully I’m able to let it calm down and get back out there.”

In truth, even a short absence will be tough for the Mariners, especially on offense. He is arguably the best hitter on the ball club and undoubtedly a integral part of the roster.

The Downey, California native was well on his way to being selected for his first ever All-Star game prior to his injury. His stats among regular first baseman are impressive, including ranking second for hits and wins above replacement, along with third for batting average and on-base percentage following Sunday’s action.

As you’d expect, France is frustrated by the timing of his injury, especially with the Mariners showing signs of life recently in winning five of their last last six games, including a dominating 8-2 victory over the Athletics. He said:

“Anytime you have to go on the IL it’s not fun, but we’re playing good baseball right now. We’re winning those close games again, which is nice, so yes it’s definitely frustrating not being able to be out there.”

While the 27-year-old’s level of production won’t be replicated, his absence should set the stage for Dylan Moore to see more playing time at first base. Infielder Drew Ellis has been called up from Triple-A to take France’s spot on the active roster.

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France was named AL Co-Player of the Week for April 18–24. He hit .500 (13 x 26) with seven runs scored, one double, three home runs, 10 RBI, two walks, one hit-by-pitch, a .552 on-base percentage and a .885 slugging percentage (1.436 OPS) in six games during the week.

The former San Diego Padre had a monster game on April 23, going 5-for-6 with a homer and five RBI. He became just the fourth player in Mariners history to record five+ hits and five+ RBI in the same game.

What it your opinion of France’s season to date? How concerned are you about the impact his absence will have on the Mariners? Let us know in the comments section below.