BALTIMORE — Ken Griffey Jr. insisted Tuesday he was available to pinch-hit during a recent Mariners game, in spite of a report that he was taking a nap.
Quoting two Mariners who spoke anonymously, The (Tacoma) News Tribune reported Griffey was asleep in the clubhouse during Saturday’s game against the Angels.
Asked if he was asleep during the game, Griffey waited and stared for several seconds after hearing the question. He then said, “Anything else you want to ask?”
He seemed more interested in finding out which of his teammates said he was sleeping on the job.
“I’m just hoping that whoever said it will be man enough to come to me,” Griffey said.
Footnotes.
Red Sox pitcher Josh Beckett probably will miss Friday’s start because back spasms kept him from making his usual off-day workout.
• The Twins placed shortstop J.J. Hardy on the 15-day disabled list with a bruised left wrist and recalled infielder Matt Tolbert from Triple-A Rochester.
• Giants left fielder Mark DeRosa underwent an MRI exam and nerve tests on his troublesome left wrist, and he remains out indefinitely.
• Padres right-hander Kevin Correia was placed on the bereavement list after the death of his younger brother Saturday, while right-hander Tim Stauffer went on the 15-day DL after he needed an emergency appendectomy.
• Astros outfielder Michael Bourn has been suspended two games for making contact with an umpire, but remains in the lineup while he appeals.
The Associated Press
