San Francisco Giants injury updates: Andrew Susac, Mike Leake and Nori Aoki news and analysis

Aug 2, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Mike Leake (13) pours water on his head in between innings of the game against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Leake (hamstring)

Update: Tuesday, August 18

As it turns out, Leake will not start Tuesday’s game, giving way to another Ryan Vogelsong spot start.

While it’s unclear exactly how long Leake will be out, it sounds like Sunday will be the latest he could return to the rotation. 

—End of Update—

Mike Leake, the team’s prized trade-deadline acquisition, is slated to make his second start for San Francisco on Tuesday after being sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Leake (9-6, 3.52 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) looked sharp in his debut against the Rangers, but having the right-hander then miss two weeks in the midst of the Giants’ stretch drive was deflating, to say the least. He’ll be facing a tough test in his return, squaring off against a Cardinals ball club that boasts the best record in baseball (75-42).

While Leake’s start is locked in, who he replaces on the roster remains to be seen. Josh Osich is the most likely option for demotion despite his brilliance in limited action, as the Giants currently have three lefties in the ’pen. The wild card, as it often is, could be a pitcher with a minor ailment (i.e. a phantom injury) taking a 15-day break.

Next: Onto Aoki update