Tyler Naquin exits game after fouling a ball off his foot

Tyler Naquin has been removed from the Cleveland Indians’ spring training matchup against the San Diego Padres after fouling a ball off his right foot. According to MLB.com’s Jordan Bastian, Naquin talked with Francona and an athletic trainer before exiting the game.

Naquin, who figures to be at least part of the Indians’ center field if healthy, has gone 5-for-12 in four spring training games. After getting off to a hot start last season as a rookie, he was looking like a Rookie of the Year candidate but cooled off considerably in the latter half of the season. He could still have value as a platoon bat, especially if he can find a way to hit high fastballs.

Assuming the injury is anything more than a quick reminder that baseballs are fast and hard, Austin Jackson, Abraham Almonte, and Bradley Zimmer will be looked upon to step up throughout March.

UPDATE: The Indians confirmed that Naquin’s right foot is “bruised” and they will announce the x-ray results Monday morning.

The optimist in me wants to say it’s because they know we’ll be super excited to know he’s fine so it’ll be a great way to start our week, but every other part of me is thinking this isn’t great news.