6/23 Notes from the Training Room

Written by Chris Kuhlmann

Monday, 23 June 2008

Down Ticks:

Carlos Zambrano, SP CHC

He was placed on the DL, retroactive to June 19^th with a mild right shoulder strain.

Fantasy Impact: The Cubs would be foolish to rush him back so this DL stint is quite appropriate. The injury appears to be on the minor side so he may be back as soon as July 4-6 series vs. STL.

Erik Bedard, SP SEA

He left his start early Friday night vs. ATL after only 3 innings with back spasms. He is expected to make his next start Wednesday vs. NYM.

Fantasy Impact: I have no clue what to make of this. Possibly just some minor tightness with no real lasting effects; or is this some sort of psychological power play in regards to the recent developments in the Mariner’s organization. Either way, just another disappointing scene in this 2008 Seattle soap opera, starting Erik Bedard.

Daisuke Matsuzaka, SP BOS

Returned Sat. vs. STL from a DL stint for a mild rotator cuff strain. He lasted only 1 inning, yielding 6 hits, 7 ER, 3 BB with 1 K.

Fantasy Impact: He has always liked to pitch a lot; throwing on off days and getting a ton of work in Spring Training. He may be one of those pitchers that requires constant throwing for feedback in order to have control and command of his pitches. If this is the case, it will take him longer than most pitchers to be effective after a lay off. Reserve him until he gets more command and control back.

Fausto Carmona, SP CLE

On the 15 day DL with a left hip strain. He experienced soreness during his rehab throwing program when he pitched a simulated game last Monday. He has been shut down for a few days.

Fantasy Impact: Best case scenario, this pushes his return back to early July. Be concerned that this injury may be more than they initially planned and may keep him out until the other side of the All Star Break.

Shawn Marcum, SP TOR

He was placed on the 15 day DL Sat. due to a strained right elbow.

Fantasy Impact: #1: His elbow is reported to have been bothering him over the last 2 weeks. #2: He is scheduled to see Dr. James Andrews today. My guess for #3 is season ending reconstructive surgery. For his sake, I hope I am wrong.

Chris is a Certified Hand Therapist and avid fantasy sports participant. He consults and treats athletes from high school to the professional ranks sin the Baltimore/DC area for Maryland SportsCare & Rehab and Professional SportsCare & Rehab.