Brandon Crawford (knee) ruled out next week

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The Giants entered spring three weeks with almost no health issues of note, but it was clear this week that they couldn’t avoid the injury bug forever.

The entire left half of the infield projected for Opening Day has been closed, the club announced on Monday, a day after an MRI revealed an oblique strain that called into question the availability of their highest-paid free agent addition. and one of his best camp stories, a two-way bowler pitching 98 mph, left his exit with forearm discomfort.

Shortstop Brandon Crawford is dealing with discomfort in his left knee, the same one he injured in a slump to home plate last June. That injury forced him onto the injured list twice and cost him a month of the season. He will not participate in any baseball activities next week.

Third baseman David Villar, who was cut from the Giants’ lineup on Sunday, had an MRI that revealed a mild hip flexor strain. While coach Gabe Kapler said he had only “mild” concerns regarding Villar’s Opening Day availability, he will also miss at least the next few games. He will be reassessed daily, according to the club.

Crawford and Villar join a growing group of sidelines that include Mitch Haniger (oblique), Ronald Guzmán (forearm), Luis González (back) and Thomas Szapucki (arm). Austin Slater, at least, made his spring debut on Sunday after struggling with neuritis in his throwing elbow.

Come back for updates.