Boston College Baseball: Chris Shaw Out 3-6 Weeks With Broken Bone

Boston College baseball slugger Chris Shaw will miss the next 3-6 weeks with a hand injury. The lefty outfielder broke a bone in his hand during this past weekend series with the Clemson Tigers.

At the time of his injury, Shaw had extended his hitting streak to 15 games, which is good enough for fourth best since 2005. He is one game behind his personal best streak of 16, which he achieved last year. He did not appear in any action the rest of the weekend as the Birds fell in two out of the three games against the Tigers.

In a report on ACC Now, Shaw wasn't even sure when he broke the hamate bone in his right hand. The broken bone could take up to six weeks to heal, which would be the start of the ACC Tournament. Head coach Mike Gambino was optimistic about an early return to the lineup, however, which could mean the big lefty would be penciled into the lineup in time for a stretch run at the conference tournament. If he is unable to go, the Eagles would have to make the conference tournament without their biggest bat.

This year, Shaw's been a monster. He is second in the ACC with 11 homers, and he ranks fourth in the league with 41 RBI. His .339 is over 20 points better than the next BC hitter, and his .686 slugging percentage is atop the ACC's best. In addition, one-third of his 24 hits have come via a double, and his 40 runs scored is second best on the team.

This no doubt creates a huge void for the Eagles to fill. Shaw is projected to be a high round draft pick with plus to plus-plus power.

Boston College takes the field against Rhode Island this afternoon in a non-conference game.