Carlton ruckman Marc Pittonet is expected to miss the start of the 2025 AFL season after sustaining a calf injury.
Pittonet is the latest casualty at the Blues, joining the likes of Nic Newman (knee), Jagga Smith (knee) and Alex Cincotta (hip) on the sidelines, while there's a watch on key forward Charlie Curnow (knee).
The 28-year-old has yet to put together a full AFL season - and won't this year - dealing with persistent and lingering injuries.
Pittonet suffered a finger injury in 2024 that required surgery, limiting him to 14 outings, allowing emerging ruckman Tom De Koning to claim the number one ruck role.
The Blues had multiple opportunities to witness De Koning take ahold of the position in the former Hawk's absence but had previously preferred to play the pair, permitting Harry McKay and Curnow to remain in the front half.
The club has yet to confirm a timeline for Pittonet's return or the severity of the injury.
Carlton will kick off their 2025 campaign with the traditional Thursday night clash against Richmond on March 13, after withdrawing from Opening Round.
