It's too early in the season to tell how Albert Pujols' plantar fasciitis will hold up, but for right now, signs are pointing in the right direction.
"I feel awesome," said Pujols, who sustained a partial tear to the plantar fascia in his left foot last July. "To be able to do things with no pain or discomfort, to have my legs underneath me, to move around and have the load I want in my swing... that's the biggest difference."
During spring training thus far the Angels have been pacing Pujols in drill, but they have expected he will play first base regularly this season, his normal position. Pujols started 65 of 99 games at designated hitter last season.
They also believe Pujols will regain his form and hitting power, power that when healthy, makes him a threat. Pujols hit .257 with 17 home runs and 64 runs in 2013. In two seasons with Anaheim, Pujols carries a .275/.338/.485 average with 47 home runs and 169 RBIs.
"You use your legs to hit," Pujols said. "I'm not a guy who lunges at the ball. I have a unique stance and a lot of torque in my lower half. When your lower half is not working, you're not able to do the things you need to do to hit."
Pujols is looking to play 150-160 games this year. From what the Angels have seen thus far in spring training, it could be possible.
"Albert looks great taking ground balls, and he has a nice gait as far as moving around," manager Mike Scioscia said. "His legs look strong."
Let's hope for a plantar fasciitis free year, Albert.
Reference: LA Times.
If you have heel pain, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Heel Pain Doctor in CT
Podiatrist in Newington
Visit our website, like our page on Facebook, and follow our tweets on Twitter.
