Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Jake Bauers avoided a serious injury after initial X-rays showed a fracture in his right big toe.
Further testing revealed the crack was likely an old injury, not a fresh break.
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Bauers fouled a pitch off his toe during Monday's game against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park.
He was removed from the game and underwent X-rays, which showed a fracture line.
On Tuesday morning, MRI and CT scans confirmed the fracture was pre-existing.
The 30-year-old was not placed on the Injured List and is considered day-to-day as he manages swelling and pain.
"I fouled a ball off it last night," Bauers said. "Cold weather, wasn't getting any better, couldn't really move.
Came out of the game, got an X-ray. It showed a fracture line.
At the time they weren't sure if it was old or new."
Bauers expressed relief after doctors determined the fracture was old. "The fact that it's old I think it's probably the better of the two options," he said.
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Treatment will focus on physical therapy and pain management. Bauers is working with training staff to protect the foot while staying available for games.
"It's going to be fine," Bauers said. "Just need to get the swelling down and it's a pain tolerance thing from there."
Brewers Manager Praises Bauers' Determination
Manager Pat Murphy commended Bauers for his willingness to play through discomfort. "If you're in the major leagues, you want to play," Murphy said.
"There's not many guys in this situation, especially with the year that he's having, who's not going to want to play through that."
Murphy expressed confidence that Bauers will manage the ailment, though it won't be easy.
Bauers has been a key contributor for Milwaukee this season, posting an . 856 OPS with a team-leading 18 home runs and 60 RBIs.
He has played first base and both corner outfield positions.
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While Bauers recovers, first baseman Andrew Vaughn is expected to see increased playing time.
