Post by John on May 8, 2006 9:40:01 GMT -4
5/11 Updates
Griffey hits walkoff home run in first game back
In his first game back from the DL, Ken Griffey Jr. hit his first walkoff homer since 2002, giving the Reds a 5-4 win over the Nationals in 11 innings on Thursday.
It was a three-run shot off Joey Eischen. The Nationals had gone ahead 4-1 in the top of the 11th after Rick White gave up four hits and three runs, but Jon Rauch, Felix Rodriguez and Eischen all failed to shut the door on Cincinnati. Griffey also had a double in six at-bats, and he made a diving catch in center field. The homer was his 539th.
Matsui suffers fractured left wrist
Hideki Matsui suffered a fractured left wrist making a catch in the first inning Thursday. He'll undergo surgery on Thursday.
No additional details yet. Four to six weeks is the best-case scenario for Matsui. A six- to eight-week absence is also possible. The Yankees will probably recall Kevin Thompson and have him enter a rotation with Melky Cabrera and Bubba Crosby until Gary Sheffield comes back. Unless Sheffield has a setback, the Yankees shouldn't need to trade for an outfielder just yet.
Griffey returns from disabled list
Reds activated outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. from the 15-day disabled list.
Now it just remains to be seen whether he'll be able to play regularly. His return to the lineup will put Ryan Freel back into a utility role. Brandon Phillips figures to get most of the playing time at second base at the moment. Adam Dunn and Austin Kearns will be dropped in the order to make room for Griffey.
Jays' Chacin to have MRI on elbow
Gustavo Chacin will have an MRI on Thursday after complaining of a sore elbow following his start Wednesday.
"I feel sore. I got a little bit scared to throw the ball," Chacin said. The Blue Jays are going to be down to two reliable starters if Chacin is forced to the disabled list. Either Scott Downs would move in from the bullpen to take his place or Josh Banks would be called up to join the rotation.
White Sox put McCarthy into rotation
Manager Ozzie Guillen announced after today's game with the Angels that Brandon McCarthy would start Monday's game against the Twins.
McCarthy threw four innings in relief of starter Charlie Haeger tonight, yielding two runs on a walk and two hits. That he totaled 54 pitches tonight should help him get stretched out for the start on Monday. McCarthy's numbers haven't met expectations as a reliever thus far, but he's got the background to suggest he's well worth using until Jose Contreras returns. A strong matchup against a lackluster Twins offense next week increases McCarthy's short-term value.
5/10 Updates
MRI on Big Unit's shoulder negative
Randy Johnson underwent an MRI on his left shoulder that came back negative.
The company line is that Johnson wasn't feeling any pain in the shoulder; the Yankees just wanted to rule out any problems. "There's no medical issue. It's basically normal. What we're trying to do is eliminate possibilities. Now that medical is eliminated, it's down to player-coach," GM Brian Cashman said. Frankly, we've been more worried about Johnson's back and knees than his arm. He's scheduled to start Sunday against the A's.
Hamels to make major league debut Friday
Cole Hamels will make his major league debut Friday against the Reds, the Phillies confirmed on Wednesday.
Hamels is going to take the rotation spot of Ryan Madson, who will move back into the relief role he thrived in the past two years. Hamels is worthy of an immediate pickup even in shallow mixed leagues. It's not very likely that he'll remain healthy enough to throw 130-150 innings over the rest of the season, but he could be one of the NL's better starters right away.
Cardinals' Ponson placed on 15-day DL
Cardinals placed RHP Sidney Ponson on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to May 8, with a strained muscle in his right elbow.
Ponson won't be eligible to return when the Cardinals need a fifth start on May 20. It's possible that the Cardinals will go with either Josh Hancock or Adam Wainwright then. Anthony Reyes only figures to be called up if the team doesn't think Ponson will be ready to come back before the end of the month.
5/9 Updates
Perez returns to Dodgers as reliever
Dodgers activated LHP Odalis Perez from the bereavement list.
Perez is back, but he's returning to the Dodgers as a reliever after three strong efforts and three poor ones to begin the season. Unless the Dodgers believe it's his mother's health troubles that are leading to his difficulties, it's way too early to be taking such a tactic with him, especially since it will likely kill what little trade value he might have had. Since he'll be back in the rotation before long, Perez becomes a nifty buy-low candidate in NL-only leagues.
Alou likely to miss four to six weeks
Source: Giants.mlb.com
The Giants currently believe Moises Alou will miss four to six weeks with a sprained right ankle suffered Tuesday.
Alou underwent an MRI on Tuesday. "It showed he has an ankle sprain, which is good because that's all we wanted to find out," trainer Stan Conte said. "One of the things that we took the MRI for was to make sure there weren't any small fractures in the bone that weren't picked up on X-ray, and that was true." Steve Finley will fill in for Alou for the next month.
Sheets to go on DL with shoulder tendinitis
Ben Sheets - S - MLW - May. 9 - 9:50 pm et
Ben Sheets will be placed on the 15-day disabled list on Wednesday with tendinitis in his right shoulder.
The Brewers are entering Cubs territory when it comes to honesty about injuries. Ben Hendrickson is going to be moved up to start Thursday. It hasn't been announced who will take Sheets' spot in the rotation. Dana Eveland seems to be likeliest choice. We don't yet have any additional details on Sheets' latest setback.
Clemens says family would support his return
Source: Astros.mlb.com
Roger Clemens indicated to KRIV-TV in Houston that he has the go-ahead from his family to return to pitch this season.
"I can tell you the latest is probably the family is warming up to it again," Clemens said. "Even my two little ones who did not want Dad to go out there are talking about it again, which I knew that would happen once they were seeing all my friends out there playing with Houston." Clemens still isn't ready to make a decision, though. June 15 has been the target date for his agents. "I'm not too far away physically, but mentally I'm nowhere close," he said.
Griffey still day-to-day with knee injury
Ken Griffey Jr. said he still felt a slight twinge while testing his injured knee on Tuesday. He remains day-to-day.
Although he wasn't quite ready to come off the disabled list tonight, it still figures to happen soon. "I feel like I'm turning the corner," he said. "I just need to feel comfortable going out there day-in and day-out." Ryan Freel started in center field against the Nationals.
Contreras to miss at least two starts
Although the White Sox believe he could have returned next week, Jose Conteras will miss at least two starts after going on the DL Tuesday with an inflamed nerve in his back.
"It's really bad I have to miss starts ... especially when I'm pitching so well," Contreras said through an interpreter. "What upsets (me) the most is I wish it had been on the mound or while I was doing one of my workouts. I was just throwing really softly with Freddy [Garcia] on the side, and that's where I felt the pain." Contreras will be eligible to return on May 20, and the plan appears to be to have him ready for then.
MLBPA could scrap new drug policy
Source: The Associated Press
According to The Associated Press, the MLBPA can scrap baseball's new tougher steroid penalties if no new labor contract is in place by August.
If players and owners don't agree to a new labor contract by Aug. 1, the union has until Aug. 15 to unilaterally end the new drug policy as of Dec. 19, when the current collective bargaining agreement expires. Because of all of the bad publicity scrapping the policy would create, it seems unlikely that MLBBA will exercise the clause. Still, it's something the players can use in negotiations.
Angels' Kotchman placed on DL
Angels placed first baseman Casey Kotchman on 15-day disabled list with mononucleosis.
Kotchman, who was hitting .152 in 79 at-bats, could begin a rehab assignment immediately. How he performs over the next couple of weeks will determine whether he's brought back as the Angels' first baseman or left in Triple-A. In the meantime, the Angels will use Howie Kendrick, Dallas McPherson and Robb Quinlan at first base. Kendrick and McPherson are the better bets in AL-only leagues.
Sheffield sent to DL with hand contusion
Yankees placed outfielder Gary Sheffield on 15-day disabled list, retroactive to May 6, with a left hand contusion.
Melky Cabrera is expected to be the Yankees' primary right fielder for the next two weeks. Although it's not unusual for Sheffield to be limited by injuries, this is his first trip to the disabled list since 2001.
Rays prospect Young gets 50-game suspension
Source: ESPN.com
Delmon Young was suspended for 50 games without pay by the International League on Tuesday.
IL president Randy Mobley said that he could not determine, with absolute certainty, that Young had intended to hit the umpire when he threw the bat. "If I had, I would have suspended him for the entire season," Mobley said. "He explained to me that it was his intent to throw his bat and throw his helmet back toward to the plate to show his disgust with the call, as we've seen in other situations, and there was a miscalculation." Young will also perform at least 50 hours of community service. It seems like a fair penalty to us. Young has already been sitting out since April 27, so he'll be eligible to play again on June 19.
Agent thinks Bonds will play in 2007
Source: Newsday
Agent Jeff Borris told Newsday that he believes Barry Bonds will return to play in 2007.
Said Borris: "I have every reason to believe Barry Bonds will be a professional baseball player in 2007." For the Broxton Rox, of course. Borris said he think Bonds might be open to accepting a DH role in the American League. "I wouldn't rule out DH as a possibility," Borris said. "In fact, if he were a DH, I think 1,000 home runs would be within his grasp. Barry approaches rehab as diligently as anybody. If his knee holds up, I wouldn't put 1,000 home runs past him."
5/8 Updates
Conteras could go disabled list Tuesday
Source: WhiteSox.mlb.com
The White Sox will decide Tuesday whether to place Jose Contreras on the disabled list with soreness in his back and hip.
Contreras threw his normal sideline on Saturday and reported no problems. It was Sunday that he began feeling pain. "It came completely out of left field," said pitching coach Don Cooper, adding that it'd be a "minor miracle" if Contreras could start Wednesday. Cooper also confirmed that knuckleballer Charlie Haeger is the alternative to make the start.
Halladay goes distance in win over Angels
Roy Halladay threw a complete-game four-hitter as the Blue Jays defeated the Angels 5-1 on Monday. He struck out six and walked one.
While it's true that the Angels can't hit at all right now, Halladay would have beaten anyone tonight. He had both the best velocity and the most movement on his sinker that he's displayed in four starts since returning from a strained forearm last month. The Blue Jays and fantasy owners will hope it lasts.
Mets' Glavine gets option for 2007
Source: The Associated Press
The Mets confirmed Monday that Tom Glavine has restuctured his contract to include an option for 2007.
Glavine's 2006 salary was reduced from $10.5 million to $7.5 million under the terms of the deal. The new contract contains a 2007 player option at $5.5 million and a $12 million team option, both with a $3 million buyout. The player option would increase by $1 million each for 180, 190 and 200 innings this year, and the team option would increase by $2 million if he throws 180 innings this year. If either option is exercised, and Glavine's 2007 salary is less than $14 million, he could have performance bonuses that would raise his earnings that year to $14 million.
Erstad goes on DL with ankle injury
Angels olaced outfielder Darin Erstad on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to May 1, due to an irritated right ankle.
Erstad will be eligible to return next Tuesday, but it appears that he'll likely miss additional time. The Angels will go with Juan Rivera in center field most of the time while he's out. On days that Rivera is used as a DH or a left fielder, Tommy Murphy will play center.
Wood strikes out 12 in rehab start
Kerry Wood (shoulder) struck out 12 in five scoreless innings during his rehab start for low Single-A Peoria on Saturday.
Wood gave up one hit, walked one and hit a batter in a 70-pitch outing. He touched 97 mph on the radar gun. "I probably have got one more (minor league appearance), and then I'll be ready to go," he said. "I feel good and I've been recovering pretty well. I just need to get that pitch count up there and be able to go deep into games." If all goes well, Wood will return to the rotation on May 17. Rich Hill would likely head back to the minors then.
5/7 Updates
Twins' Santana takes no-hitter into 7th
Johan Santana took a no-hitter into the seventh inning on Sunday and ended up recording a win after yielding two runs in seven innings of work while striking out 11 Tigers.
Santana had walked and hit a batter when Ivan Rodriguez singled to lead off the seventh. Magglio Ordonez followed with a two-run homer. The Tigers added a single and a double later in the inning, but Santana pitched out of the jam to preserve a 4-2 lead. The double-digit strikeout game was the 25th of Santana's young career.
Sheffield won't play until he's 100 percent
Gary Sheffield said Sunday that he won't play again until his left wrist is 100 percent. A decision on a DL stint could come soon.
"I won't go until it's ready, and right now it's sore and stiff," Sheffield said. "I'm going to take the extra time and make sure it's right. When it's right, then I'm playing." Yankees manager Joe Torre said Saturday that Sheffield would be available off the bench, but that's been ruled out for today. If Sheffield goes on the DL, Andy Phillips and Bubba Crosby will benefit. Kevin Thompson might be a possibility to join the club's bench.
Sheets scratched with shoulder stiffness
Ben Sheets was scratched from his scheduled start on Sunday because of stiffness in the front of his shoulder. David Bush is filling in for him.
Bush is pitching on three days' rest. The Brewers are downplaying Sheets' latest problem, but this is a huge source of concern. The current line is that this isn't related to his previous shoulder troubles and that he'll start Thursday. "I don't think it's set me back any. It feels better than last time," Sheets said. "I've been battling it all year, but it hasn't been overly bad. A little bit sore is fine. I don't need an MRI. I just need it to get stronger. Could I pitch today? Yeah. But if I'm smart, probably not. I think if I can get on a roll, I'll be all right. But I can't even get going. It seems like I'm in a rut right now." If Sheets goes on the DL this week, the Brewers may have to add Dana Eveland to the rotation.
A's place OF Bradley on 15-day disabled list
Athletics placed outfielder Milton Bradley on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 27, with a sprained right knee.
His replacement on the roster wasn't immediately announced. It might be that Jason Kendall will withdraw his appeal of a four-game suspension now. The A's would then replace Bradley with a catcher. Bradley will be eligible to return Friday and should be ready then.
Mets' Zambrano done for the season
Source: New York Daily News
According to his agent, Victor Zambrano has a torn flexor tendon in his right elbow and will require season-ending surgery.
With injuries to Brian Bannister (hamstring strain) and John Maine (finger inflammation), Friday and Saturday starts are now open for the Mets. Jose Lima and Darren Oliver are the leading candidates to join the starting rotation, while Jeremi Gonzalez, who has 3.03 ERA at Triple-A, and Aaron Heilman are also internal options. That Zambrano is done makes it more likely that Heilman will join the rotation at some point, even if it doesn't happen right away.
Erstad likely headed to the DL
Source: Los Angeles Times
Darin Erstad suffered a setback after testing his injured right ankle Friday and probably will be put on the 15-day disabled list in the next few days.
There is also a chance the center fielder will need surgery to shave down two bone spurs in the ankle, a procedure that could sideline Erstad for about two months. He will see a foot specialist in Chicago on
Oliver Perez facing a demotion?
Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
General manager Dave Littlefield confirmed Saturday that Oliver Perez "has options" remaining and could be demoted to the minor leagues without having to clear waivers.
Littlefield said the Pirates' immediate focus regarding Perez is to help him regain his command, but if he continues to struggle, a demotion could be coming. The southpaw is listed as the Pirates' starter Thursday against Arizona.
Sheff could land on the shelf
Source: New York Daily News
Gary Sheffield admitted his wrist had worsened Saturday and added that a trip to the disabled list a possibility.
He was a late scratch from last night's lineup and won't start in Sunday's series finale against the Rangers, manager Joe Torre said. Asked about going on the disabled list, Sheffield said, "Based on it right now, that's probably what I'll have to do." Bubba Crosby has been filling in for him in right field recently.
5/6 Updates
Giants place OF Alou on 15-day DL
Giants placeed outfielder Moises Alou on the 15-day disabled list with a sprained right ankle.
The Giants won't have a guess on how much time Alou will miss until after the swelling goes down in the ankle he hurt Saturday night. Steve Finley will play regularly for the next couple of weeks. Since he's batting right behind Barry Bonds in the lineup, he could be an asset in mixed leagues for the short-term.
Andruw Jones departs with injury
Andruw Jones left Saturday's game in the seventh inning with an undisclosed injury.
Jones appeared to hurt his back on a swing against Jorge Julio in the 14th inning on Friday. He went 0-for-3 with a strikeout before being replaced by Brian Jordan today.
Mets' Zambrano leaves with elbow injury
Victor Zambrano was forced from Saturday's game by discomfort in his right elbow.
We're guessing that a DL trip is likely for Zambrano. That might mean that Jose Lima's stint in the rotation will last longer than anticipated. The Mets will likely continue to resist the temptation to move Aaron Heilman into the rotation.
5/5 Updates
Royals send down 3B Teahen
Royals optioned third baseman Mark Teahen to Triple-A Omaha.
Esteban German takes over as the starting third baseman for now. The Royals are sending down Teahen after a .195/.241/.351 start. Worse is that he's been about as bad on defense as in the batter's box. The Royals will say they aren't giving up on him, but he's shown so little over the past year that he can't be allowed to stand in Alex Gordon's way. Gordon figures to spend at least the final month or two of the season as the club's third baseman.
Phillies' Lieberthal placed on DL with knee injury
Phillies placed catcher Mike Lieberthal on the 15-day disabled list Friday with a bruised left knee.
It seems unlikely that Lieberthal will need the full 15 days off after getting hit in the left knee by a pitch last night, but the Phillies couldn't afford to play a man short in the meantime. Sal Fasano and Carlos Ruiz will share time behind the plate. Fasano is starting tonight, but Ruiz might be the better choice in NL-only leagues for the next two weeks.
Nationals' Guzman to undergo surgery
Because he's still dealing with pain in his right shoulder, Cristian Guzman will have season-ending surgery to repair a torn labrum.
Guzman resumed playing in extended spring games two weeks ago, but he was still in pain. "Cristian worked extremely hard for two months around the clock to attempt to come back without surgery," GM Jim Bowden said. "But without even getting on the field today, it was evident we had no choice but to wait until next year." Sadly, Royce Clayton will remain the Nationals' primary shortstop, probably for the rest of the season.
Devil Rays activate Huff, Lugo
Devil Rays activated third baseman Aubrey Huff from the 15-day disabled list.
Sean Burroughs and Nick Green were cut last night to make room for Huff and Julio Lugo, who will both be in tonight's lineup. Ty Wigginton will play mostly second base until Jorge Cantu returns and then could move out to right field.
Orioles' Lopez sent to DL with back injury
Orioles placed catcher-designated hitter Javy Lopez on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 28, with a mid-back strain.
Raul Chavez will act as the No. 2 catcher until Lopez returns, hopefully as soon as his 15 days are up. Once Miguel Tejada's knee allows him to play shortstop, Kevin Millar and Jeff Conine can take turns DHing. Luis Matos is replacing Lopez on the roster and will help out in the outfield.
Kendall suspended four games
MLB suspended catcher Jason Kendall four games and fined him an undisclosed amount for charging John Lackey during Tuesday's game.
Lackey was not suspended, even though he instigated the incident by yelling in from the mound after Kendall tried and failed to get hit by an inside breaking ball. Kendall's suspension is set to begin tonight, though he'll almost surely appeal. Better if he serves it when Milton Bradley is healthy, allowing the A's to send down Bobby Kielty and add a catcher.
Escobar to start Saturday
Source: Los Angeles Times
Kelvim Escobar (blister) was originally scheduled to start Thursday, but threw a bullpen session instead.
Escobar's next start has been moved up to Saturday against Toronto, which is a quicker comeback than initially expected. He remains a risky fantasy play until he proves the blister won't hurt his pitching.
Griffey hits walkoff home run in first game back
In his first game back from the DL, Ken Griffey Jr. hit his first walkoff homer since 2002, giving the Reds a 5-4 win over the Nationals in 11 innings on Thursday.
It was a three-run shot off Joey Eischen. The Nationals had gone ahead 4-1 in the top of the 11th after Rick White gave up four hits and three runs, but Jon Rauch, Felix Rodriguez and Eischen all failed to shut the door on Cincinnati. Griffey also had a double in six at-bats, and he made a diving catch in center field. The homer was his 539th.
Matsui suffers fractured left wrist
Hideki Matsui suffered a fractured left wrist making a catch in the first inning Thursday. He'll undergo surgery on Thursday.
No additional details yet. Four to six weeks is the best-case scenario for Matsui. A six- to eight-week absence is also possible. The Yankees will probably recall Kevin Thompson and have him enter a rotation with Melky Cabrera and Bubba Crosby until Gary Sheffield comes back. Unless Sheffield has a setback, the Yankees shouldn't need to trade for an outfielder just yet.
Griffey returns from disabled list
Reds activated outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. from the 15-day disabled list.
Now it just remains to be seen whether he'll be able to play regularly. His return to the lineup will put Ryan Freel back into a utility role. Brandon Phillips figures to get most of the playing time at second base at the moment. Adam Dunn and Austin Kearns will be dropped in the order to make room for Griffey.
Jays' Chacin to have MRI on elbow
Gustavo Chacin will have an MRI on Thursday after complaining of a sore elbow following his start Wednesday.
"I feel sore. I got a little bit scared to throw the ball," Chacin said. The Blue Jays are going to be down to two reliable starters if Chacin is forced to the disabled list. Either Scott Downs would move in from the bullpen to take his place or Josh Banks would be called up to join the rotation.
White Sox put McCarthy into rotation
Manager Ozzie Guillen announced after today's game with the Angels that Brandon McCarthy would start Monday's game against the Twins.
McCarthy threw four innings in relief of starter Charlie Haeger tonight, yielding two runs on a walk and two hits. That he totaled 54 pitches tonight should help him get stretched out for the start on Monday. McCarthy's numbers haven't met expectations as a reliever thus far, but he's got the background to suggest he's well worth using until Jose Contreras returns. A strong matchup against a lackluster Twins offense next week increases McCarthy's short-term value.
5/10 Updates
MRI on Big Unit's shoulder negative
Randy Johnson underwent an MRI on his left shoulder that came back negative.
The company line is that Johnson wasn't feeling any pain in the shoulder; the Yankees just wanted to rule out any problems. "There's no medical issue. It's basically normal. What we're trying to do is eliminate possibilities. Now that medical is eliminated, it's down to player-coach," GM Brian Cashman said. Frankly, we've been more worried about Johnson's back and knees than his arm. He's scheduled to start Sunday against the A's.
Hamels to make major league debut Friday
Cole Hamels will make his major league debut Friday against the Reds, the Phillies confirmed on Wednesday.
Hamels is going to take the rotation spot of Ryan Madson, who will move back into the relief role he thrived in the past two years. Hamels is worthy of an immediate pickup even in shallow mixed leagues. It's not very likely that he'll remain healthy enough to throw 130-150 innings over the rest of the season, but he could be one of the NL's better starters right away.
Cardinals' Ponson placed on 15-day DL
Cardinals placed RHP Sidney Ponson on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to May 8, with a strained muscle in his right elbow.
Ponson won't be eligible to return when the Cardinals need a fifth start on May 20. It's possible that the Cardinals will go with either Josh Hancock or Adam Wainwright then. Anthony Reyes only figures to be called up if the team doesn't think Ponson will be ready to come back before the end of the month.
5/9 Updates
Perez returns to Dodgers as reliever
Dodgers activated LHP Odalis Perez from the bereavement list.
Perez is back, but he's returning to the Dodgers as a reliever after three strong efforts and three poor ones to begin the season. Unless the Dodgers believe it's his mother's health troubles that are leading to his difficulties, it's way too early to be taking such a tactic with him, especially since it will likely kill what little trade value he might have had. Since he'll be back in the rotation before long, Perez becomes a nifty buy-low candidate in NL-only leagues.
Alou likely to miss four to six weeks
Source: Giants.mlb.com
The Giants currently believe Moises Alou will miss four to six weeks with a sprained right ankle suffered Tuesday.
Alou underwent an MRI on Tuesday. "It showed he has an ankle sprain, which is good because that's all we wanted to find out," trainer Stan Conte said. "One of the things that we took the MRI for was to make sure there weren't any small fractures in the bone that weren't picked up on X-ray, and that was true." Steve Finley will fill in for Alou for the next month.
Sheets to go on DL with shoulder tendinitis
Ben Sheets - S - MLW - May. 9 - 9:50 pm et
Ben Sheets will be placed on the 15-day disabled list on Wednesday with tendinitis in his right shoulder.
The Brewers are entering Cubs territory when it comes to honesty about injuries. Ben Hendrickson is going to be moved up to start Thursday. It hasn't been announced who will take Sheets' spot in the rotation. Dana Eveland seems to be likeliest choice. We don't yet have any additional details on Sheets' latest setback.
Clemens says family would support his return
Source: Astros.mlb.com
Roger Clemens indicated to KRIV-TV in Houston that he has the go-ahead from his family to return to pitch this season.
"I can tell you the latest is probably the family is warming up to it again," Clemens said. "Even my two little ones who did not want Dad to go out there are talking about it again, which I knew that would happen once they were seeing all my friends out there playing with Houston." Clemens still isn't ready to make a decision, though. June 15 has been the target date for his agents. "I'm not too far away physically, but mentally I'm nowhere close," he said.
Griffey still day-to-day with knee injury
Ken Griffey Jr. said he still felt a slight twinge while testing his injured knee on Tuesday. He remains day-to-day.
Although he wasn't quite ready to come off the disabled list tonight, it still figures to happen soon. "I feel like I'm turning the corner," he said. "I just need to feel comfortable going out there day-in and day-out." Ryan Freel started in center field against the Nationals.
Contreras to miss at least two starts
Although the White Sox believe he could have returned next week, Jose Conteras will miss at least two starts after going on the DL Tuesday with an inflamed nerve in his back.
"It's really bad I have to miss starts ... especially when I'm pitching so well," Contreras said through an interpreter. "What upsets (me) the most is I wish it had been on the mound or while I was doing one of my workouts. I was just throwing really softly with Freddy [Garcia] on the side, and that's where I felt the pain." Contreras will be eligible to return on May 20, and the plan appears to be to have him ready for then.
MLBPA could scrap new drug policy
Source: The Associated Press
According to The Associated Press, the MLBPA can scrap baseball's new tougher steroid penalties if no new labor contract is in place by August.
If players and owners don't agree to a new labor contract by Aug. 1, the union has until Aug. 15 to unilaterally end the new drug policy as of Dec. 19, when the current collective bargaining agreement expires. Because of all of the bad publicity scrapping the policy would create, it seems unlikely that MLBBA will exercise the clause. Still, it's something the players can use in negotiations.
Angels' Kotchman placed on DL
Angels placed first baseman Casey Kotchman on 15-day disabled list with mononucleosis.
Kotchman, who was hitting .152 in 79 at-bats, could begin a rehab assignment immediately. How he performs over the next couple of weeks will determine whether he's brought back as the Angels' first baseman or left in Triple-A. In the meantime, the Angels will use Howie Kendrick, Dallas McPherson and Robb Quinlan at first base. Kendrick and McPherson are the better bets in AL-only leagues.
Sheffield sent to DL with hand contusion
Yankees placed outfielder Gary Sheffield on 15-day disabled list, retroactive to May 6, with a left hand contusion.
Melky Cabrera is expected to be the Yankees' primary right fielder for the next two weeks. Although it's not unusual for Sheffield to be limited by injuries, this is his first trip to the disabled list since 2001.
Rays prospect Young gets 50-game suspension
Source: ESPN.com
Delmon Young was suspended for 50 games without pay by the International League on Tuesday.
IL president Randy Mobley said that he could not determine, with absolute certainty, that Young had intended to hit the umpire when he threw the bat. "If I had, I would have suspended him for the entire season," Mobley said. "He explained to me that it was his intent to throw his bat and throw his helmet back toward to the plate to show his disgust with the call, as we've seen in other situations, and there was a miscalculation." Young will also perform at least 50 hours of community service. It seems like a fair penalty to us. Young has already been sitting out since April 27, so he'll be eligible to play again on June 19.
Agent thinks Bonds will play in 2007
Source: Newsday
Agent Jeff Borris told Newsday that he believes Barry Bonds will return to play in 2007.
Said Borris: "I have every reason to believe Barry Bonds will be a professional baseball player in 2007." For the Broxton Rox, of course. Borris said he think Bonds might be open to accepting a DH role in the American League. "I wouldn't rule out DH as a possibility," Borris said. "In fact, if he were a DH, I think 1,000 home runs would be within his grasp. Barry approaches rehab as diligently as anybody. If his knee holds up, I wouldn't put 1,000 home runs past him."
5/8 Updates
Conteras could go disabled list Tuesday
Source: WhiteSox.mlb.com
The White Sox will decide Tuesday whether to place Jose Contreras on the disabled list with soreness in his back and hip.
Contreras threw his normal sideline on Saturday and reported no problems. It was Sunday that he began feeling pain. "It came completely out of left field," said pitching coach Don Cooper, adding that it'd be a "minor miracle" if Contreras could start Wednesday. Cooper also confirmed that knuckleballer Charlie Haeger is the alternative to make the start.
Halladay goes distance in win over Angels
Roy Halladay threw a complete-game four-hitter as the Blue Jays defeated the Angels 5-1 on Monday. He struck out six and walked one.
While it's true that the Angels can't hit at all right now, Halladay would have beaten anyone tonight. He had both the best velocity and the most movement on his sinker that he's displayed in four starts since returning from a strained forearm last month. The Blue Jays and fantasy owners will hope it lasts.
Mets' Glavine gets option for 2007
Source: The Associated Press
The Mets confirmed Monday that Tom Glavine has restuctured his contract to include an option for 2007.
Glavine's 2006 salary was reduced from $10.5 million to $7.5 million under the terms of the deal. The new contract contains a 2007 player option at $5.5 million and a $12 million team option, both with a $3 million buyout. The player option would increase by $1 million each for 180, 190 and 200 innings this year, and the team option would increase by $2 million if he throws 180 innings this year. If either option is exercised, and Glavine's 2007 salary is less than $14 million, he could have performance bonuses that would raise his earnings that year to $14 million.
Erstad goes on DL with ankle injury
Angels olaced outfielder Darin Erstad on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to May 1, due to an irritated right ankle.
Erstad will be eligible to return next Tuesday, but it appears that he'll likely miss additional time. The Angels will go with Juan Rivera in center field most of the time while he's out. On days that Rivera is used as a DH or a left fielder, Tommy Murphy will play center.
Wood strikes out 12 in rehab start
Kerry Wood (shoulder) struck out 12 in five scoreless innings during his rehab start for low Single-A Peoria on Saturday.
Wood gave up one hit, walked one and hit a batter in a 70-pitch outing. He touched 97 mph on the radar gun. "I probably have got one more (minor league appearance), and then I'll be ready to go," he said. "I feel good and I've been recovering pretty well. I just need to get that pitch count up there and be able to go deep into games." If all goes well, Wood will return to the rotation on May 17. Rich Hill would likely head back to the minors then.
5/7 Updates
Twins' Santana takes no-hitter into 7th
Johan Santana took a no-hitter into the seventh inning on Sunday and ended up recording a win after yielding two runs in seven innings of work while striking out 11 Tigers.
Santana had walked and hit a batter when Ivan Rodriguez singled to lead off the seventh. Magglio Ordonez followed with a two-run homer. The Tigers added a single and a double later in the inning, but Santana pitched out of the jam to preserve a 4-2 lead. The double-digit strikeout game was the 25th of Santana's young career.
Sheffield won't play until he's 100 percent
Gary Sheffield said Sunday that he won't play again until his left wrist is 100 percent. A decision on a DL stint could come soon.
"I won't go until it's ready, and right now it's sore and stiff," Sheffield said. "I'm going to take the extra time and make sure it's right. When it's right, then I'm playing." Yankees manager Joe Torre said Saturday that Sheffield would be available off the bench, but that's been ruled out for today. If Sheffield goes on the DL, Andy Phillips and Bubba Crosby will benefit. Kevin Thompson might be a possibility to join the club's bench.
Sheets scratched with shoulder stiffness
Ben Sheets was scratched from his scheduled start on Sunday because of stiffness in the front of his shoulder. David Bush is filling in for him.
Bush is pitching on three days' rest. The Brewers are downplaying Sheets' latest problem, but this is a huge source of concern. The current line is that this isn't related to his previous shoulder troubles and that he'll start Thursday. "I don't think it's set me back any. It feels better than last time," Sheets said. "I've been battling it all year, but it hasn't been overly bad. A little bit sore is fine. I don't need an MRI. I just need it to get stronger. Could I pitch today? Yeah. But if I'm smart, probably not. I think if I can get on a roll, I'll be all right. But I can't even get going. It seems like I'm in a rut right now." If Sheets goes on the DL this week, the Brewers may have to add Dana Eveland to the rotation.
A's place OF Bradley on 15-day disabled list
Athletics placed outfielder Milton Bradley on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 27, with a sprained right knee.
His replacement on the roster wasn't immediately announced. It might be that Jason Kendall will withdraw his appeal of a four-game suspension now. The A's would then replace Bradley with a catcher. Bradley will be eligible to return Friday and should be ready then.
Mets' Zambrano done for the season
Source: New York Daily News
According to his agent, Victor Zambrano has a torn flexor tendon in his right elbow and will require season-ending surgery.
With injuries to Brian Bannister (hamstring strain) and John Maine (finger inflammation), Friday and Saturday starts are now open for the Mets. Jose Lima and Darren Oliver are the leading candidates to join the starting rotation, while Jeremi Gonzalez, who has 3.03 ERA at Triple-A, and Aaron Heilman are also internal options. That Zambrano is done makes it more likely that Heilman will join the rotation at some point, even if it doesn't happen right away.
Erstad likely headed to the DL
Source: Los Angeles Times
Darin Erstad suffered a setback after testing his injured right ankle Friday and probably will be put on the 15-day disabled list in the next few days.
There is also a chance the center fielder will need surgery to shave down two bone spurs in the ankle, a procedure that could sideline Erstad for about two months. He will see a foot specialist in Chicago on
Oliver Perez facing a demotion?
Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
General manager Dave Littlefield confirmed Saturday that Oliver Perez "has options" remaining and could be demoted to the minor leagues without having to clear waivers.
Littlefield said the Pirates' immediate focus regarding Perez is to help him regain his command, but if he continues to struggle, a demotion could be coming. The southpaw is listed as the Pirates' starter Thursday against Arizona.
Sheff could land on the shelf
Source: New York Daily News
Gary Sheffield admitted his wrist had worsened Saturday and added that a trip to the disabled list a possibility.
He was a late scratch from last night's lineup and won't start in Sunday's series finale against the Rangers, manager Joe Torre said. Asked about going on the disabled list, Sheffield said, "Based on it right now, that's probably what I'll have to do." Bubba Crosby has been filling in for him in right field recently.
5/6 Updates
Giants place OF Alou on 15-day DL
Giants placeed outfielder Moises Alou on the 15-day disabled list with a sprained right ankle.
The Giants won't have a guess on how much time Alou will miss until after the swelling goes down in the ankle he hurt Saturday night. Steve Finley will play regularly for the next couple of weeks. Since he's batting right behind Barry Bonds in the lineup, he could be an asset in mixed leagues for the short-term.
Andruw Jones departs with injury
Andruw Jones left Saturday's game in the seventh inning with an undisclosed injury.
Jones appeared to hurt his back on a swing against Jorge Julio in the 14th inning on Friday. He went 0-for-3 with a strikeout before being replaced by Brian Jordan today.
Mets' Zambrano leaves with elbow injury
Victor Zambrano was forced from Saturday's game by discomfort in his right elbow.
We're guessing that a DL trip is likely for Zambrano. That might mean that Jose Lima's stint in the rotation will last longer than anticipated. The Mets will likely continue to resist the temptation to move Aaron Heilman into the rotation.
5/5 Updates
Royals send down 3B Teahen
Royals optioned third baseman Mark Teahen to Triple-A Omaha.
Esteban German takes over as the starting third baseman for now. The Royals are sending down Teahen after a .195/.241/.351 start. Worse is that he's been about as bad on defense as in the batter's box. The Royals will say they aren't giving up on him, but he's shown so little over the past year that he can't be allowed to stand in Alex Gordon's way. Gordon figures to spend at least the final month or two of the season as the club's third baseman.
Phillies' Lieberthal placed on DL with knee injury
Phillies placed catcher Mike Lieberthal on the 15-day disabled list Friday with a bruised left knee.
It seems unlikely that Lieberthal will need the full 15 days off after getting hit in the left knee by a pitch last night, but the Phillies couldn't afford to play a man short in the meantime. Sal Fasano and Carlos Ruiz will share time behind the plate. Fasano is starting tonight, but Ruiz might be the better choice in NL-only leagues for the next two weeks.
Nationals' Guzman to undergo surgery
Because he's still dealing with pain in his right shoulder, Cristian Guzman will have season-ending surgery to repair a torn labrum.
Guzman resumed playing in extended spring games two weeks ago, but he was still in pain. "Cristian worked extremely hard for two months around the clock to attempt to come back without surgery," GM Jim Bowden said. "But without even getting on the field today, it was evident we had no choice but to wait until next year." Sadly, Royce Clayton will remain the Nationals' primary shortstop, probably for the rest of the season.
Devil Rays activate Huff, Lugo
Devil Rays activated third baseman Aubrey Huff from the 15-day disabled list.
Sean Burroughs and Nick Green were cut last night to make room for Huff and Julio Lugo, who will both be in tonight's lineup. Ty Wigginton will play mostly second base until Jorge Cantu returns and then could move out to right field.
Orioles' Lopez sent to DL with back injury
Orioles placed catcher-designated hitter Javy Lopez on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 28, with a mid-back strain.
Raul Chavez will act as the No. 2 catcher until Lopez returns, hopefully as soon as his 15 days are up. Once Miguel Tejada's knee allows him to play shortstop, Kevin Millar and Jeff Conine can take turns DHing. Luis Matos is replacing Lopez on the roster and will help out in the outfield.
Kendall suspended four games
MLB suspended catcher Jason Kendall four games and fined him an undisclosed amount for charging John Lackey during Tuesday's game.
Lackey was not suspended, even though he instigated the incident by yelling in from the mound after Kendall tried and failed to get hit by an inside breaking ball. Kendall's suspension is set to begin tonight, though he'll almost surely appeal. Better if he serves it when Milton Bradley is healthy, allowing the A's to send down Bobby Kielty and add a catcher.
Escobar to start Saturday
Source: Los Angeles Times
Kelvim Escobar (blister) was originally scheduled to start Thursday, but threw a bullpen session instead.
Escobar's next start has been moved up to Saturday against Toronto, which is a quicker comeback than initially expected. He remains a risky fantasy play until he proves the blister won't hurt his pitching.