Josh Naylor Leaves Game with Ankle Injury

Cleveland Guardians' Josh Naylor left the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates late Friday night due to a left ankle injury sustained while running to first base after an RBI single, which he had just hit for his third hit of the night. He was replaced by Tyler Freeman as a pinch runner and was later diagnosed with an ankle contusion, avoiding serious injury but leaving his availability for the next game uncertain. Naylor had an impressive performance prior to the injury, recording three hits and driving in four runs in a game that saw the Guardians come back to win 10-8. Meanwhile, fellow reliever Tim Herrin exited a game against the Pirates earlier due to a left arm injury after being struck by a line drive, raising concerns about his status as well. The Guardians are currently leading the American League Central division by 1.5 games, and Naylor's health will be critical as they aim for a playoff push.