PHOENIX -- The banged-up Giants might have lost another one during Tuesday's game.
First baseman Brandon Belt was removed with one out in the bottom of the fourth after pulling up while chasing a pop up down the first base line. Belt was diagnosed with a strained groin and was set to be further evaluated after the game. Belt hobbled to a stop while chasing the ball and was immediately checked by a trainer and manager Bruce Bochy. After attempting to run a couple short sprints in the outfield to test his groin, Belt was removed.
Joaquin Arias replaced Belt, who had an RBI single in the top of the inning. The Giants already are without Travis Ishikawa, Belt's backup at first base. Ishikawa (back tightness) started the season on the disabled list and is not eligible to return until April 14. Hunter Pence is also on the disabled list and earlier Tuesday the Giants placed Matt Cain on the DL.
If the Giants need a replacement at first base, Adam Duvall would be the option on the 40-man roster. They also could bring up Andrew Susac and use one of their three catchers at first base. All three have played the position in the past.
