Holy Injury Bug, Batman: Injury Updates Galore!

 

My Fellow Phans,

I know teams go through their share of injuries these days, but the list of players adding to the Phillies’ injury report daily is higher than anybody would have predicted.

So here is an update on all your injured Phillies: I promise keep you posted on all changes.

Let’s start with some good news:

- Carlos Ruiz missed a game against the A’s due to a root canal that he ha earlier that day, this was nothing serious and he was good enough to play on Sunday in the series finale…

- On the catching note, Brian Schneider returned from the DL this weekend. The move sent Dane  Sardinha back to the minors. I think I speak for all Phillies fans when I say, welcome back Brian!

- Big Joe Blanton keeps trucking along in his return from the DL. He is currently having a “tossing” program stretching up to 100 feet. He is reported to have a bullpen session this week.

- Brad Lidge is said to be feeling “better” and should have a bullpen session this week. He has been out all season.

Now for the less encouraging news:

-  It seems Roy Oswalt rushed himself back  too soon from his DL stint earlier this year and it cost him dearly. Oswalt was diagnosed with a bulging disc in his back and should be sidelined until August. Although, this timetable seems more promising than some originally thought, it is still a tough blow to the Phillies rotation.

"I was just worried because the pain was going a little bit farther down my leg," he said. "The symptoms I had in the past, it's always just been in my hip. For the last two or three weeks, it's gotten lower and lower down toward the knee."

Doctors have stated that Oswalt will eventually need surgery on his back, but Roy is hoping to push that off as long as possible. For now, it seems that his recovery plan could include rest, medications, and possible injections.

-  Jose Contreras is out with a mild right forearm strain and is not expected to throw for at least another two weeks.

- Closer Ryan Madson is sidelined with numbness in his right hand. There’s a belief that he sustained it after being hit by a liner during an outing against the Texas Rangers. There were reports that he  could return early this week, but it seems that this timetable may be pushed back.

I will keep you updated with any changes that occur with these players.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Readings and go Phillies!