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The Washington Nationals received some potentially devastating news in the seventh inning of their game against the Chicago Cubs on Thursday. First baseman Michael Morse, who has been the team's best hitter this season, was hit by a pitch in the left elbow, and was forced to leave the game in the seventh inning.
Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post reports that Morse was holding his elbow in a certain position when leaving, which may indicate the injury is serious.
Morse jumped down the first base line and doubled over when he reached the bag. After a trainer came on to the field to check on Morse, he walked into the dugout holding his arm in an ‘L' shape.
Morse is hitting .320 with 20 home runs this season. His batting average is third in the National League. Jonny Gomes pinch-ran for Morse, and Laynce Nix was moved to first base in his absence.