Colorado Rockies Injury News: David Dahl Closer to Taking Batting Practice

David Dahl sat in front of his locker inside the Colorado Rockies clubhouse on Wednesday afternoon, having just completed some work as he continues to battle back from a rib injury that has kept him sidelined throughout the early part of the season.

Since first being injured in early March, Dahl admits it’s been a frustrating time. However, he is seeing progress in his return from the injury.

“Doing really well. Been swinging and taking some flips again. It felt good,” Dahl told Rox Pile. “Hopefully I’ll progress to BP (batting practice) soon. I feel good.

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“It’s tough. It’s really hard to not play but I want to make sure it doesn’t come back so I have to be smart. I haven’t felt it (the injury). I feel good. The next step is BP and see how that feels and then test it in games.”

Dahl, who hit .315 with seven homers in 63 games last season after being called up in July, says there is no firm, set timeline for his return. However, he hints that it could be sooner than later.

“I’m going with what the trainers are saying. I’m relying on them,” Dahl said. “Just being smart (with the injury). Hopefully I’m playing games, whether it’s extended or a rehab assignment, like a week, maybe less, somewhere around there.”

Dahl says he has been trying to make the most of his time on the shelf, learning what he can from the dugout. He hopes that on-the-job education will pay off when he returns to the field.

“It’s helped to see how pitchers throw certain guys on our team, especially guys who have some similarities (to Dahl) like CarGo (Carlos Gonzalez), Chuck (Charlie Blackmon) or other lefties,” Dahl said. “I watch and try to learn as much as possible, including where they position guys.”

The 23-year-old outfielder has also watched as teammate Ian Desmond has come back from his fractured hand and begun taking batting practice. He admits it’s made him itch to get back in the cage.

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“It makes me want to come back more,” Dahl smiled. “His is a separate type of injury. It’s a little different but I’m happy for him that he’s come back quick and he’ll be rolling soon.”