Patrick Bailey forced from SF Giants’ game vs. Dodgers, but averts worst-case scenario

PHOENIX — The San Francisco Giants got a scare Tuesday when their starting catcher, Patrick Bailey, was forced to depart their Cactus League game against the Dodgers.

On a pitch from Blayne Enlow in the bottom of the third inning, Freddie Freeman swung, fouling off the ball, which struck Bailey’s throwing hand. The 24-year-old catcher finished the inning behind the plate but was replaced by Jakson Reetz to begin the fourth inning.

The team later announced that Bailey had suffered a right hand contusion, or bruise, averting the worst-case scenario of a possible fracture. He underwent a set of X-rays, which came back clean, manager Bob Melvin said.

“Hopefully that remains the case,” Melvin said. “As long as it’s not broken, I don’t care.”

Bailey was not available to comment.

After debuting last year as one of the top defensive catchers in the majors, the former first-round pick is central to the Giants’ plans this season. Behind him on the depth chart are Tom Murphy, brought in on a two-year free-agent contract, and Reetz, a non-roster invitee.

If Bailey were forced to miss time, that could open a path to the roster for Joey Bart, who cannot be sent to the minors without being placed on waivers.