PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Rather than have Johan Santana ride a bus two hours to pitch against division rival Atlanta, the Mets had their ace pitch against New York minor- leaguers for four innings Tuesday in his second outing since knee surgery.
Santana allowed two runs and six hits in four innings, striking out five and walking none. He threw 40-of-56 pitches for strikes.
“I felt pretty good, because I was able to throw a lot of strikes,” said Santana, who has been slowed by elbow tightness. He added, “I’m very pleased.”
Santana reported no problems with the elbow, which caused him to miss two scheduled starts. He said he hopes to start the April 6 opener at Cincinnati.
Brewers’ Hoffman hurting
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Brewers closer Trevor Hoffman has been sidelined by a strain on his right side and the timetable for his return is unclear.
“We are going to proceed cautiously, as we have done with all these injuries,” manager Ken Macha said. “Every little thing you are concerned about, but the trainers aren’t very concerned about it.”
Footnotes.
Jamie McCourt, the wife of Dodgers owner Frank McCourt, was appointed the team’s chief executive officer. Former Nuggets and Avalanche executive Dennis Mannion, the team’s chief operating officer, will succeed her as team president.
• Right-hander Sidney Ponson signed a minor-league deal with the Royals.
• Red Sox shortstop Julio Lugo is expected to be out three to four weeks after undergoing surgery on his right knee.
The Associated Press
