Z - MLB Injury Roundup

MLB Injury Roundup

July 6, 2007 @ 16:00:00

By Bryce McRae
Edited by Steve Ungrey

Welcome to KFFL.com's Injury Roundup. Each week, we bring you the latest from around the diamond on key injury issues. Who are the latest players on the disabled list that could affect their team's production, which players may be headed to the disabled list soon and which players may be returning to the fold in the coming days or weeks?

PRIMETIME PLAYERS

Atlanta Braves starting pitcher John Smoltz (shoulder) is not expected to throw for the next week and will likely miss his next start. After throwing a bullpen session Wednesday, July 4, Smoltz returned home to Atlanta to consult with doctors regarding his right shoulder discomfort. The injury will also keep him from taking part in the All-Star Game.

Atlanta Braves third baseman Chipper Jones (groin) was able to avoid a trip to the disabled list due to a strained right adductor muscle and has hit well.

Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Randy Johnson (back) made his third trip to the disabled list this season. He was placed on it Tuesday, July 3.

Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Erik Bedard (hamstring) threw bullpen sessions Saturday, June 23, and Sunday, June 24, and returned to start against the New York Yankees Wednesday, June 27.

Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Curt Schilling (shoulder) made 35 throws from 60 feet Monday, July 2, and he will begin throwing long-toss during the All-Star break. Schilling was not on the team's post All-Star break rotation and it is unsure when he will return.

Chicago Cubs closer Ryan Dempster (oblique) will be activated off the 15-day disabled list when the second half of the season resumes Friday, July 13.

Chicago White Sox outfielder Scott Podsednik (ribcage) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday, July 3, with a muscle strain near his left ribcage.

Chicago White Sox outfielder Jermaine Dye (quadriceps) returned to game action Monday, July 2, going 0-for-4.

Detroit Tigers relief pitcher Joel Zumaya (finger) was medically cleared to begin throwing Tuesday, July 3. He was originally scheduled to meet with Dr. Charles Melone Wednesday, July 11, but was ahead of schedule in his rehab and was given the okay to throw. Despite being ahead of schedule, he still expects to return in September.

Florida Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez (hamstring) left early Monday, July 2, with a tweaked hamstring and has not been in the starting lineup since. He did appear as a pinch-hitter Tuesday, July 3, and hit a two-run homer. He could return Thursday, July 5.

Florida Marlins starting pitcher Josh Johnson (forearm) threw five shutout innings Wednesday, July 4, before leaving with forearm stiffness. The team placed him on the 15-day disabled list Thursday, July 5.

Houston Astros closer Brad Lidge (knee) was ready to come off the disabled list Wednesday, July 4; however, his knee locked up Tuesday, July 3, one day after throwing a simulated game. He will likely remain out until after the All-Star break. The oblique muscle strain that sent him to the disabled list is no longer bothering him.

Milwaukee Brewers shortstop J.J. Hardy (illness) was out Tuesday, July 3, with flu-like symptoms. He felt good enough to return Wednesday, July 4, but manager Ned Yost kept him out because he had already planned to play IF Craig Counsell.

Minnesota Twins first baseman Justin Morneau (lung) returned to playing first base Sunday, July 1, going 1-for-4 with two runners left on base.

New York Mets starter Pedro Martinez (shoulder) threw 50 pitches in a simulated game Tuesday, July 3, and the team is waiting to see how he recovers before deciding whether or not he is ready for a rehab assignment.

New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez (hamstring) suffered a strained hamstring during the team's game Monday, July 2, and he was forced to leave early. He was able to play third base as usual Tuesday, July 3, but was starting at designated hitter Wednesday, July 4. He was out of the starting lineup and is set to undergo an MRI Thursday, July 5. He has not ruled out a trip to the disabled list, nor has he ruled out skipping the All-Star Game to give his hamstring a rest if needed.

New York Yankees designated hitter Jason Giambi (foot) had the protective boot he had been wearing since Thursday, May 31, removed and will have his foot scanned sometime this week. Giambi is only able to do foot exercises to stretch the bottom of his foot.

Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Rich Harden (shoulder) completed a side session Wednesday, July 4, with no pain and is set to pitch Saturday, July 7. Manager Bob Geren said Harden could be given the start that day.

Oakland Athletics closer Huston Street (elbow) threw 20-25 pitches from a third of the way up the mound and 50 feet from the plate Wednesday, July 4. He threw nothing but fastballs and those were around 80-85 percent. He will have three more throwing sessions before he begins throwing atop the mound. Once he can throw from the top of the mound, he will begin throwing breaking balls again. The team is hoping he will return by July 20 at the earliest.

San Francisco Giants outfielder Barry Bonds was out Wednesday, July 4, because of general soreness. According to manager Bruce Bochy, his status for remaining games before the All-Star break is "up in the air."

St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Chris Carpenter (elbow) began his rehab assignment by throwing 32 pitches over 1 1/3 innings in a start for Class A Palm Beach Tuesday, July 3. Carpenter took the loss as he allowed five runs (three earned) and five hits, while walking none and striking out two. The team will wait until Friday, July 6, to decide when he will make his next rehab start for Palm Beach.

Tampa Bay Devil Rays closer Al Reyes (shoulder) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Wednesday, July 4, with a minor strain of his right rotator cuff. Relief pitcher Gary Glover is expected to get the call as closer while Reyes is out.

Tampa Bay Devil Rays second baseman B.J. Upton (quadriceps) was scheduled to play seven innings in a rehab game Wednesday, July 4, followed by nine innings Thursday, July 5, and a start as the designated hitter Friday, July 6. He will then be reevaluated Saturday, July 7. The chances of him returning before the All-Star break are remote, according to Joe Maddon; however, he likely won't miss much time after the break.

Texas Rangers first baseman Mark Teixeira (quadriceps) could begin a rehab assignment as early as Friday, July 6, and is expected to be ready to come off the disabled list Friday, July 13.

Texas Rangers second baseman Ian Kinsler (foot) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Monday, July 2, after an MRI revealed he had suffered a stress fracture in his left foot. He is expected to miss three weeks.

Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher A.J. Burnett (shoulder) was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a shoulder injury. He was initially expected to miss two weeks, but will now likely be out three to four weeks. An examination by Dr. James Andrews Sunday, July 1, found nothing significantly wrong with Burnett's shoulder.

Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Troy Glaus (foot) fouled a ball off his left foot Wednesday, July 4, and X-rays came back inconclusive. He is set to be reevaluated Thursday, July 5.

AROUND THE DIAMOND

AMERICAN LEAGUE EAST

Baltimore Orioles - Third baseman Melvin Mora (foot) bruised the instep of his foot Sunday, July 1. He was still not in the lineup Tuesday, July 3, and will likely miss a few more days. He has said he feels good swinging a bat but does not feel comfortable fielding yet… Relief pitcher Scott Williamson (foot) did not require an MRI on his foot and was available Monday, July 2; however, the team has designated him for assignment… Relief pitcher Danys Baez (forearm) was scheduled to throw a side session with Class A Frederick Monday, July 2, and will join Double-A Bowie for a rehab assignment from Thursday, July 5, through Monday, July 9… Starting pitcher Steve Trachsel (back) was placed on the 15-day disabled list due to a strained muscle in his lower back. He will likely miss just one start but was placed on the DL because of the All-Star break… Starting pitcher Adam Loewen (elbow) has had his cast removed and he is set to begin his rehab immediately.

Boston Red Sox - Outfielder Coco Crisp (thumb) missed the team's game Sunday, July 1, due to a sore thumb but was able to return Tuesday, July 3… Relief pitcher Joel Pineiro (ankle) was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a sore ankle.

New York Yankees - Starting pitcher Jeffrey Karstens (elbow) was transferred to the 60-day disabled list.

Tampa Bay Devil Rays - Catcher Shawn Riggans (elbow) has been on a throwing program to work on a new throwing motion. He has been throwing from between 50 and 75 percent and is not yet ready for a rehab assignment.

Toronto Blue Jays - Outfielder Reed Johnson (back) began his rehab with Triple-A Syracuse Tuesday, July 3, by going 1-for-3 with one run scored. Through five minor-league games, he has hit .333 (5-for-15) with one home run, one RBI and two runs. The team is hoping he will return shortly after the All-Star break… Starter Gustavo Chacin threw off the mound Monday, July 2, and was set to do so again Thursday, July 5… First baseman Lyle Overbay (wrist) took batting practice Tuesday, July 3, for the first time since going on the disabled list. During the session, he noticed his wrist was getting stronger and he felt as though he could begin a rehab assignment this coming weekend. If that happens, he could return for the team's series against the Red Sox, which begins Thursday, July 12.

AMERICAN LEAGUE CENTRAL

Chicago White Sox - Relief pitcher Dewon Day (back) began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Charlotte Saturday, June 30, throwing one scoreless inning.

Cleveland Indians - Relief pitcher Aaron Fultz (ribs) was scheduled to play catch from 120 feet Tuesday, July 3, and follow that with a bullpen session Thursday, July 5. He is expected to go off the disabled list shortly after the All-Star break… Outfielder David Dellucci (hamstring) underwent a successful surgery to remove a tendon attached to his left hamstring Friday, June 29. He is expected to be out for up to eight weeks.

Detroit Tigers - Relief pitcher Fernando Rodney (forearm, shoulder) will likely begin throwing next week, although it is uncertain if he will be able to return by Thursday, July 12… Pitcher Tim Byrdak (elbow) was scheduled to play catch Wednesday, July 4, and if that went well, he could be throwing off the mound by the end of next week… Relief pitcher Zach Miner (shoulder) was activated off the disabled list Saturday, June 30.

Kansas City Royals - Designated hitter Mike Sweeney (knee) was hoping to return this week but instead underwent arthroscopic surgery on his knee Thursday, July 5. He will be out indefinitely… Starting pitcher Scott Elarton (foot) gave up six runs in the first inning of a rehab start with Triple-A Omaha. He was done after four innings, allowing 10 hits, seven runs, and four home runs. He has one more rehab start scheduled for Sunday, July 8… Second baseman Mark Grudzielanek (knee) could come off the disabled list Friday, July 6… First baseman Ryan Shealy (hamstring) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Saturday, June 30, with a strained right hamstring… Starting pitcher Luke Hudson (shoulder) underwent shoulder surgery Thursday, June 28, and will miss the rest of the season.

Minnesota Twins - Outfielder Rondell White (calf) felt his calf tighten while sliding into first base during a rehab game Tuesday, July 3, and will be moved to the Gulf Coast League to continue his rehab. The move was precautionary… Second baseman Luis Castillo (knee) was given the day off Thursday, June 28, to rest his sore knees.

AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim - Outfielder Reggie Willits (knee) was able to return to the starting lineup Tuesday, July 3, after sitting out since Wednesday, June 27, with a right knee contusion. He went 0-for-4 in his return… Outfielder Garret Anderson (hip) was activated off the 15-day disabled list Tuesday, July 3… Infielder Maicer Izturis (hamstring, oblique) was activated off the 15-day disabled list Tuesday, July 3, after playing seven games with Class A Rancho Cucamonga. During his stint with the Class-A outfit, he hit .318 with three runs scored and three RBI… Infielder Erick Aybar (hand) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday, July 3… Catcher Mike Napoli (ankle) was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a high ankle sprain. He could be out for up to six weeks. Catcher Jose Molina will see most of the playing time replacing him.

Oakland Athletics - Outfielder Chris Snelling (knee) underwent arthroscopic knee surgery Tuesday, July 3, and he will be out three to six weeks… Infielder Marco Scutaro (hand) was hit by a pitch on his left hand Monday, July 2, but X-rays came back negative and he was cleared to play Tuesday, July 3… Relief pitcher Justin Duchscherer (hip) decided to undergo surgery on his hip that will keep him out the rest of the season… Starting pitcher Esteban Loaiza (knee) reported no pain after a throwing session Tuesday, July 3, and he will continue playing catch and extending the throwing distance. He will build up to throwing from the front of the mound… Relief pitcher Kiko Calero (shoulder) reported feeling good after his throwing session Tuesday, July 3, and he threw to hitters Thursday, July 5. If that went well, he will likely be activated a day or two after throwing.

Seattle Mariners - Relief pitcher Mark Lowe (elbow) threw one-third of an inning for Triple-A Tacoma in a rehab appearance Tuesday, July 3. He allowed two hits and walked one batter in the appearance… Relief pitcher Chris Reitsma threw 20 pitches in two innings for Triple-A Tacoma Tuesday, July 3. He rejoined the team in Oakland Thursday, July 5, and the team will decide what to do with him from there… First baseman Richie Sexson (thumb) is recovering from a left thumb contusion he suffered Monday, July 2. There is no timetable for his return but he will be looked at on a day-to-day basis… Catcher Kenji Johjima (hand) is still recovering from a hand injury suffered Tuesday, July 3. Johjima wanted to play Wednesday, July 4, but manager John McLaren wanted to give him some more rest. He is day-to-day… Pitcher Jon Huber (forearm) threw 25 pitches Tuesday, July 3, and the team was set to make a decision on his status this week… Second baseman Jose Lopez (back) was a late scratch Saturday, June 30, due to back spasms… Starting pitcher Horacio Ramirez (shoulder) made another rehab start for Triple-A Tacoma Thursday, July 5… Outfielder Raul Ibanez (hamstring) returned Sunday, July 1, after missing just over one week. He went 1-for-5 in his return.

Texas Rangers - Starting pitcher Vicente Padilla (triceps) threw off flat ground Wednesday, July 4, and will throw a light bullpen session Friday, July 6. He will then throw a regular bullpen session Sunday, July 8. If that goes well, he is then expected to join Double-A Frisco on a rehab assignment Thursday, July 12. He will likely make two rehab starts before rejoining the team… Relief pitcher Akinori Otsuka (forearm) has been out with elbow stiffness and is day-to-day… Infielder Joaquin Arias (shoulder) underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right shoulder and the team is hoping he will return before the minor-league season ends… Starting pitcher Brandon McCarthy (finger) was able to return Monday, July 2. He allowed four runs on six hits over 3 2/3 innings and was tagged with the loss… Relief pitcher Willie Eyre (hand) underwent treatment on his right hand Wednesday, June 27, and was moved back to the bullpen.

NATIONAL LEAGUE EAST

Atlanta Braves - Starting pitcher Kyle Davies (oblique) was able to make his next start Tuesday, July 3, after having his last start pushed back. However, perhaps he should have pushed it back further as he lasted only two innings, allowing five runs on six hits and two walks.

Florida Marlins - Starting pitcher Ricky Nolasco played catch and tossed from 120 feet Wednesday, July 4. He also pitched a simulated session from flat ground. His next step will be a bullpen session Sunday, July 8. When he does return, there is also a chance he will be used as a reliever… Relief pitcher Armando Benitez (back) threw a bullpen session Wednesday, July 4, and is making progress in his recovery from a stiff lower back. He is considered day-to-day… Outfielder Cody Ross (hamstring) and third baseman Aaron Boone (knee) were both able to take live batting practice Wednesday, July 4. Ross is about two weeks from returning… Outfielder Alejandro De Aza (ankle) was set to begin jogging Tuesday, July 3.

New York Mets - Aside from Martinez, there are no significant injuries to report.

Philadelphia Phillies - Starting pitcher Jon Lieber (foot) will undergo season-ending surgery Friday, July 6, to repair a ruptured tendon in his foot… Starting pitcher Kyle Kendrick (groin) suffered from groin soreness during his last start Sunday, July 1, but is still set to make his next start Friday, July 6… Outfielder Jayson Werth (wrist) was able to take some swings Sunday, July 1, and will play for Class-A Clearwater during the All-Star break. He is hoping to come off the disabled list Saturday, July 14… Outfielder Aaron Rowand (thumb) was supposed to get Tuesday, July 3, off due to a sore right thumb but he came on during the eighth inning and played through the 13th. He was given Wednesday, July 5, off… Catcher Carlos Ruiz (knee) was given the day off Thursday, July 5, due to a right knee injury. He aggravated his knee Tuesday, July 3, when he tried to score on a bloop hit in the ninth inning.

Washington Nationals - Outfielder Alex Escobar reported no problems after running the bases and throwing the ball Tuesday, July 3. He left Thursday, July 5, to join Double-A Harrisburg on a rehab assignment… Relief pitcher Jesus Colome (buttocks) was released from the hospital after being treated for a soft-tissue infection in his right buttocks. There is no timetable for his return… Starting pitcher Micah Bowie (hip) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Monday, July 2… Starting pitcher John Patterson (elbow) will undergo a series of injections in Toronto for the nerve injury in his right elbow. The treatment is not yet available in the United States… Starter Shawn Hill (elbow) has been throwing long-toss sessions every other day and he is set to continue his rehab in Florida Sunday, July 8. There is still no timetable for his return and he will evaluate himself after each session. He is hoping to throw extended sessions by the end of next week.

NATIONAL LEAGUE CENTRAL

Chicago Cubs - Relief pitcher Angel Guzman (elbow) is expected to begin a rehab assignment by the end of next week… Pitcher Rocky Cherry (back) strained a muscle in his back and was placed on the 15-day disabled list Sunday, July 1. He has been sent to Arizona to begin his rehab… Catcher Henry Blanco (neck) has been taking part in throwing drills, however, his progress has been slow as he recovers from a herniated disc in his neck… Relief pitcher Kerry Wood (shoulder) worked off the mound for 12 minutes Friday, June 29, throwing eight warmup tosses before making 33 pitches.

Cincinnati Reds - Relief pitcher Mike Stanton (hamstring) threw for 10 minutes and participated in fielding practice Tuesday, July 3. He made a rehab appearance for Class-A Dayton Wednesday, July 4, and could return as early as Thursday, July 5… Relief pitcher Eddie Guardado (elbow) participated in fielding practice and threw for 10 minutes Tuesday, July 3. A small strain near Guardado's elbow was found but it was not related to the Tommy John surgery he underwent… Outfielder Ryan Freel (concussion) was activated off the disabled list Tuesday, July 3, and hit leadoff. He went 1-for-5 with one run scored.

Houston Astros - Aside from Lidge, the Astros have had no real injury concerns.

Milwaukee Brewers - Reliever Elmer Dessens (shoulder) threw a pain-free bullpen session Wednesday, July 4, and the team has yet to come up with a timetable for his return… Starting pitcher Chris Capuano (groin) was activated off the 15-day disabled list Sunday, July 1, and started Tuesday, July 3. However, he only lasted 3 1/3 innings in his return due to a high pitch count. He allowed two runs (one earned) and five hits, while throwing 84 pitches.

Pittsburgh Pirates - Starting pitcher Sean Burnett (elbow) left a start with Triple-A Indianapolis early Tuesday, July 3, due to left lateral elbow soreness… Starting pitcher Zach Duke (elbow) was placed on the 15-day disabled list due to a sore left elbow. He was examined by doctors Monday, July 2, who told him he does not have any structural damage to his elbow, only minor irritation. He will be re-examined Friday, July 6, by Dr. James Andrews… Outfielder Chris Duffy (ankle) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Saturday, June 30, due to a "significantly" sprained ankle.

St. Louis Cardinals - Third baseman Scott Spiezio (finger) has been battling a finger infection but was available Wednesday, July 4, and will not require a stint on the disabled list… Starting pitcher Mark Mulder (shoulder) threw a bullpen session Tuesday, July 3… Shortstop David Eckstein (back) received three shots to combat the soreness and inflammation related to his back trouble. The team had hoped to have him come off the disabled list and return to the lineup sometime this week… Starting pitcher Braden Looper (shoulder) was activated off the 15-day disabled list and started Monday, July 2. He allowed three runs on four hits over six innings in his return… Catcher Yadier Molina (wrist) returned to action Friday, June 29, going 2-for-4 with one RBI.

NATIONAL LEAGUE WEST

Arizona Diamondbacks - Outfielder Jeff DaVanon (shoulder) went 2-for-2 with one home run and three walks in his fourth rehab game with Class A Visalia. DaVanon has served as the designated hitter three times, while playing in the outfield just once. The team plans to keep him there for the time being.

Colorado Rockies - Starting pitcher Jason Hirsh (ankle) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday, July 3, with a sprained right ankle… Infielder Jamey Carroll (wrist) was scratched from the team's game Tuesday, July 3, with a sprained wrist… Outfielder Willy Taveras (quadriceps) was given the day off Wednesday, July 4, and has been out of the lineup three times in the past five games. He hurt himself Friday, June 29, and the injury has limited his speed on the basepaths.

Los Angeles Dodgers - Starting pitcher Randy Wolf (shoulder) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Wednesday, July 4, with soreness in his left shoulder. He was set for an MRI Thursday, July 5… Relief pitcher Joe Beimel (irregular heartbeat) was hospitalized Tuesday, July 3, with an irregular heartbeat and will remain in the hospital until at least Thursday, July 5. He is not expected to go on the disabled list… Pitcher Hong-Chih Kuo (elbow) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Sunday, July 1, after undergoing an MRI and complaining of irritation in his elbow. He will be shut down for seven to 10 days before beginning a light throwing program. One of the reasons for the move was because of his past injury history, which includes two Tommy John surgeries and one procedure to remove scar tissue from his elbow.

San Diego Padres - Relief pitcher Doug Brocail (gluteus) allowed just two hits and struck out three over two innings in his first rehab start for Class A Lake Elsinore Wednesday, July 4. He is eligible to come off the disabled list Saturday, July 7… Outfielder Terrmel Sledge (thumb) was held out of the starting lineup Wednesday, July 4, due to a sprained right thumb… Outfielder Milton Bradley (oblique) took practice swings from the left side Wednesday, July 4, to test out the sore oblique muscle. It is expected the team will keep him out until after the All-Star break to get him sufficient time to heal, and he has been placed on the 15-day disabled list… Outfielder Brian Giles (knee) was given the day off Sunday, July 1, after playing in two straight games. He was back in the leadoff spot Monday, July 2.

San Francisco Giants - Pitcher Jonathan Sanchez (ribcage) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Wednesday, July 4… Relief pitcher Russ Ortiz (forearm) was expected to throw 20 pitches off the mound Thursday, July 5… Relief pitcher Vinnie Chulk (personal) was placed on the bereavement list Tuesday, July 3… Infielder Rich Aurilia (neck) was activated off the disabled list Tuesday, July 3, although he did not start that day. He played in his first game Wednesday, July 4, going 2-for-5 with one home run, two runs and one RBI… First baseman Ryan Klesko (abdomen) was back in the lineup Sunday, July 1, after being a late scratch Saturday, June 30… Outfielder Fred Lewis (oblique) was activated off the 15-day disabled list Saturday, June 30. He went 0-for-1 in his return… Shortstop Omar Vizquel (groin) went 1-for-4 in his return to game action Friday, June 29.

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Author Bio

Bryce McRae
Bryce McRae is a Managing Editor with KFFL and has been involved in fantasy sports since 1999. He joined KFFL as a volunteer writer in March 2005 before becoming a Hot off the Wire Analyst in March 2006. He began working in his current capacity in September 2008. His work has appeared on fantasy sports sites such as Yahoo! and CBS Sportsline as well as in print. He graduated from the University of British Columbia in 2008 with a B.A. in History and U.S. Studies.