Domonic Brown

Phillies rookie outfielder Domonic Brown broke his hand today in the spring training game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. He left the contest after collecting his first hit of the spring, breaking an 0-16 slump. He was hit on the hand earlier in the at bat. Tough break.

Most Phillies phans were expecting hoping Brown to be able to step up and take the place of departed Jason Werth. For now, it looks like the job in right-field will go to Ben Francisco (who is having a phenomenal spring).

According to reports, Brown has a fractured hook of the hamate bone in his right hand. He is expected to have surgery and will be out 3-6 weeks. I would be very shocked if he is back anytime before 6 weeks. I will also be shocked if, when he does return, he does so in the minors.

On the bright side, Buster Posey did not get brought up to the majors last season until late May -- and ended up winning the NL Rookie of the Year. It is a long season. I hope Domonic gets healthy and makes an impact on this team.