Ian Kinsler Questionable for LA Angels Opener

The LA Angels got through Spring Training relatively unscathed on the injury front. However, Ian Kinsler is at risk of missing Opening Day due to a recent injury.

The LA Angels were very aggressive during an offseason where most clubs went into hibernation. It was uncharacteristic for Billy Eppler and the front office, but it seems like it will pay dividends towards the Halos chances of a 2018 World Series run.

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One of the biggest moves was trading for longtime rival Ian Kinsler. The former Texas Ranger had a shared distaste with the Angels and their fans. However, he was able to put his differences aside to waive his no-trade clause to join former Detroit Tigers teammate Justin Upton in Anaheim.

After being recruited by Upton to the Halos, Kinsler was instantly slated as the Opening Day starter at second base. His career .789 on-base plus slugging percentage is a huge improvement over what the Halos have seen from their second baseman the past few years.

However, now the Angels and their fans may have to wait for Kinsler to make his debut as a Halo.

Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register reported Tuesday that Kinsler was dealing with a groin issue. He missed the final games of Spring Training against the Los Angeles Dodgers, and is officially questionable for Opening Day.

While Kinsler should not miss any extended period of time, it may be some time until he debuts. Groin issues do not generally go away in a few days. This means Opening Day may be out of the realm of possibilities.

If Kinsler were to miss time, the Halos have the versatility to adjust without him. With bench players such as Luis Valbuena and Jefry Marte, they have a lefty and righty to play with. They’d be able to platoon until Kinsler is ready for his debut.

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This also means Zack Cozart may make his debut at the position he was originally recruited for by the Angels. Eppler originally wanted Cozart to play second base. However, after trading for Kinsler, Cozart agreed to hold down the hot corner.

If Kinsler were to miss time, Cozart would slide to second with Valbuena and Marte platooning at third base.