PHILADELPHIA — Stephen Strasburg’s right arm has the Nationals on edge again.
Washington general manager Mike Rizzo said Sunday the team will wait for results of an MRI on Strasburg before deciding what to do with their injured ace right-hander.
Strasburg strained a tendon in his right forearm in Saturday night’s start against the Phillies. Rizzo said he went through his normal post-start workout Sunday that included some light tossing, and he hoped to have the MRI results by the end of the day.
Manager Jim Riggleman said it was “probably safe to say” Strasburg would miss his next start. Rizzo wasn’t so definite and insisted there would be no decision until the MRI was done.
Rizzo called any reports that the Nationals had already decided to shut down Strasburg for the season “inaccurate.”
Ross joins Giants
MIAMI — Fading from the playoff race, the Marlins began their latest paring of payroll when starting outfielder Cody Ross was awarded to the Giants on a waiver claim.
Ross will give the Giants more depth for the final weeks of the playoff race. The Marlins will begin looking toward next year, and they plan to recall Cameron Maybin on Tuesday from Triple-A New Orleans for a late-season tryout in center field.
At least the Pirates are profitable
PITTSBURGH — Don’t feel too sorry for the cellar-dwelling Pirates. Losing has been profitable.
The Pirates made nearly $29.4 million in 2007 and 2008, according to team financial documents, years that were part of a streak of futility that has now reached 18 consecutive losing seasons.
The team’s ownership also paid its partners $20.4 million in 2008.
Footnotes.
The Angels placed infielder Maicer Izturis on the 15-day disabled list with right shoulder inflammation and recalled right-hander Jordan Walden from Triple-A.
• The Athletics reinstated all-star closer Andrew Bailey from the DL and optioned right-hander Ross Wolf to the minors.
The Associated Press
