Dodgers News: Howie Kendrick To Be Reevaluated After Testing Hamstring

The Los Angeles Dodgers have been without starting second baseman Howie Kendrick since Aug. 9 after he strained his left hamstring in a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. While the Dodgers have managed to push forward without Kendrick, getting contributions from Kiké Hernandez, Jose Peraza and Chase Utley, they certainly would welcome back their regular starter.

Dodgers manager Don Mattingly recently said Kendrick’s recovery had plateaued, but there appeared to be some signs of progress with the second baseman testing the hamstring by running bases at the club’s Spring Training complex on Saturday.

While there wasn’t necessarily a setback, Kendrick isn’t yet able run without issue, according to ESPN’s Mark Saxon:

He can run straight ahead at 100 percent, but he feels a little something when he runs curves,” Mattingly said. “It seems like he’s coming along. Just not quite there yet.”

The team still isn’t sure when Kendrick will be ready to go out on a possible rehab assignment, which at this stage in the season would involve him playing in postseason Minor League games. He’s scheduled to meet the Dodgers in Anaheim on Monday to be reevaluated.

In his first season with the Dodgers, the 10-year veteran is slashing .296/.341/.418 with nine home runs, 49 RBIs and 57 runs scored. Utley has gotten the bulk of the time at second base since being acquired on Aug. 20, batting .250/.350/.500 with two home runs and four RBIs in 14 games.

Mattingly has said Kendrick will retain his spot as the starting second baseman upon being reinstated from the disabled list.