MINNEAPOLIS — Twins closer Joe Nathan has a torn ligament in his throwing elbow, an injury that could require season-ending surgery.
General manager Bill Smith on Tuesday said the plan is to first give Nathan time to let soreness and swelling subside, and build strength in the muscles around the joint, before a final decision about surgery.
In the meantime, a second opinion will be sought from Dr. James Andrews, who removed bone spurs and chips from the elbow in October.
Nathan will try to pitch again in two weeks. If he can’t, he will undergo surgery.
Right-handers Jon Rauch and Matt Guerrier are probably the top two candidates to replace Nathan.
Former Dodger Davis dies
LOS ANGELES — Willie Davis, a speedy center fielder who collected World Series rings in 1963 and 1965, three Gold Gloves and was a two-time all-star during his 14 seasons with the Dodgers, was found dead in his Burbank home.
Police said they did not believe foul play was involved.
Davis, who was 69, is the franchise leader in hits (2,091), extra-base hits (585), at-bats (7,495), runs (1,004), triples (110) and total bases (3,094).
Footnotes.
Mets shortstop Jose Reyes has an overactive thyroid and is expected to remain in New York while the results of additional blood tests are used to determine his treatment.
• Infielder Hank Blalock, who hit .234 with 25 homers and 66 RBIs in 123 games for Texas last year, agreed to a minor-league deal with the Rays.
• Blue Jays right-hander Dustin McGowan, recovering from shoulder surgery, said he felt good after throwing 30 pitches during a simulated game.
• Stephen Strasburg allowed two hits in two scoreless innings in the Nationals’ 9-4 loss to the Tigers, responding well to the hoopla surrounding his first exhibition start in Viera, Fla.
The Associated Press
