NASHVILLE, Tenn. — X-rays were negative on the left ankle of Arkansas shortstop John Bolton, coach Dave Van Horn said prior the Razorbacks’ series finale at Vanderbilt on Saturday.
Speaking on the Razorback Sports Network’s pre-game show, Van Horn said Bolton’s ankle is sprained. He will be replaced by Harold Coll in the starting lineup for the final game against the Commodores.
“I don’t think it’s anything that’s going to keep him out for a long time, but he’s definitely not playing today,” Van Horn said.
Bolton collided with second baseman Peyton Holt as both players tracked a popup during the eighth inning of Arkansas’ 10-8 loss Friday night. Bolton caught the ball, then fell over in pain.
He was checked for several minutes before walking off the field on his own power. He was seen icing his ankle in the dugout.
Bolton walked around on the field prior to Saturday's game with a limp and a wrap around his ankle.
Speaking after Friday's game, Holt said he thought Bolton would be OK.
“He has a little tweak in his ankle; nothing too major, which is good,” Holt said.
Bolton has been an increasingly sure-handed shortstop for the Razorbacks, with a fielding percentage of .970 in SEC play. He has also improved his hitting from the nine hole in recent weeks.
Beginning with an April 27 game against Texas A&M, Bolton is 8 for 29 with 7 runs and 5 RBI in SEC play. His on-base percentage during that time is .432.