PITTSBURGH – When the Cincinnati Reds saw their postseason hopes fading during September, Jesse Winker cut short his rehab assignment from an intercostal strain to try to ignite the team.
Winker lasted four plate appearances before he reaggravated the injury on a swing. The injury ended his season, playing in only one game after Aug. 15.
He doesn’t regret trying to rush back from the Injured List. He wanted to help the team. But it was a disappointing end to an incredible season where he was selected as an All-Star Game starter and proved he was one of the best hitters in the National League.