TAMPA, Fla. — Alex Rodriguez participated in a sliding drill for the first time and got 15 at-bats Tuesday during his initial simulated game since right hip surgery last month.
The Yankees third baseman, who might be back with the team ahead of his projected May 15 return, slid five times on a sliding mat, a key step in his rehab program. He also faced rehabbing pitchers Sergio Mitre (elbow) and Paul Patterson (shoulder) in the simulated game.
“A good day. It felt good,” said Rodriguez, who added he could start playing in extended spring training games this week.
Hamels makes early exit
PHILADELPHIA — Phillies ace Cole Hamels left his start against Washington in the fifth inning after spraining his left ankle while trying to field John Lannan’s bunt.
Also, closer Brad Lidge is day to day because of inflammation in his surgically repaired right knee.
Footnotes.
The Astros put closer Jose Valverde on the 15- day disabled list because of a strained calf and called up right-hander Jeff Fulchino from Triple-A Round Rock (Texas).
• Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez was out of the lineup because of an injured right hand, and manager Fredi Gonzalez said Ramirez was “50-50” to play today against Johan Santana and the Mets.
• The Reds placed Edwin Encarnacion on the 15-day DL after tests found the third baseman has a chipped bone in his left wrist. The Reds called up infielder Adam Rosales from Triple-A Louisville (Ky.).
• Outfielder Josh Hamilton has a strained muscle in his left rib cage, and the Rangers are hoping he can avoid the DL and get better with medication and a few more days of rest.
• Nationals manager Manny Acta said Joel Hanrahan has lost his job as closer in favor of Kip Wells and Julian Tavarez.
• Infielders Nomar Garciaparra and Mark Ellis left Oakland’s game against Texas with calf trouble after running out groundballs.
• The Orioles activated third baseman Melvin Mora (hamstring) and optioned right- hander Matt Albers to Triple-A Norfolk (Va.).
• The Giants placed outfielder Andres Torres on the 15-day DL with a strained left hamstring and recalled infielder Eugenio Velez.
The Associated Press
