MINNEAPOLIS — Twins first baseman Justin Morneau, who hasn’t played in a game in more than two months, said Wednesday he is optimistic he will eventually return from his concussion to help out in 2010, even though he still can’t sit in the dugout to watch a full nine innings.
“To keep the symptoms down, they say to limit the stress,” Morneau said with a sheepish shrug.
Morneau, the 2006 AL MVP, went on the disabled list after taking a knee to the head while sliding into second base in a game against the Blue Jays on July 7.
Meanwhile, designated hitter Jim Thome was a late scratch for the series finale against Kansas City because of a mild abdominal strain. He is day to day.
Torre mum on future
SAN DIEGO — Joe Torre said he’s waiting to announce whether he’ll return to manage the Dodgers next year.
Torre previously said he would make the announcement around Labor Day. But Wednesday he said he is not yet ready to divulge it. Torre said he will let everyone know once the Dodgers clinch a playoff spot or are eliminated.
Marlins ace ailing
PHILADELPHIA — Marlins pitcher Josh Johnson has right shoulder inflammation and a strained mid-back, making it unclear when the all-star will return to the mound.
Manager Edwin Rodriguez said Johnson could start Wednesday or he could be shut down for the season.
• Right-hander Ricky Nolasco had knee surgery and needs four to six weeks of recovery.
• Shortstop Hanley Ramirez was held out of the starting lineup against Philadelphia because of a sore back.
Footnotes.
Shortstop Jimmy Rollins left Philadelphia’s game against the Marlins after the third inning with tightness in his right hamstring. He is day to day.
• Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton (ribs) played a light game of catch, the first step toward returning to action for baseball’s leading hitter.
• Yankees relievers Damaso Marte (shoulder) and Alfredo Aceves (back) are not expected back this season, catcher Jorge Posada (concussion-like symptoms) is day to day, and right-hander Phil Hughes will miss his turn in the rotation this weekend at Texas for additional rest.
The Associated Press
