Dodgers' Adrian Gonzalez: Back hurting again, likely to lose everyday role

Manager Dave Roberts said that Gonzalez was removed early from Sunday's game against the Brewers due to "a little" tightness in his back, Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times reports.

Gonzalez has missed extensive time this season while recovering from a herniated disc, so the Dodgers will proceed cautiously with the veteran, who may have to deal with back issues off and on the rest of the way. In addition to noting Gonzalez's injury, Roberts said that the 35-year-old may have to soon settle for a part-time role, as he indicated that Cody Bellinger (ankle) will serve as the club's primary first baseman upon being activated from the disabled list Wednesday. Since returning from a two-month absence earlier this month, Gonzalez has reached base at a meager .220 clip, offering the Dodgers little hope that he can be a viable everyday option as the team makes its playoff push. Instead, Gonzalez will likely be limited to occasional starts at first base along with pinch-hitting duties against right-handed pitching.