By Compiled from Times wires
Published May 19, 2003
SAN FRANCISCO - Right-hander Ryan Jensen, who won 13 games for the Giants last season, was demoted to Triple-A Fresno on Sunday amid differing opinions on his arm strength. The Giants also sent outfielder Jason Ellison to Fresno and recalled relievers Chad Zerbe and Manny Aybar.
Since coming off the disabled list with a strained muscle in his lower back, Jensen has allowed 16 runs in 131/3 innings of relief.
"We don't see the velocity, the arm speed," manager Felipe Alou said. "So we sent him back to start and be the good starting pitcher that he is."
Jensen left no doubt about his opinion.
"(Alou) says I don't have any strength in my arm," he said. "I think my arm is fine. My velocity feels fine. I'm not sure what to say to them."
Also, second baseman Ray Durham, expected to miss 3-4 weeks after spraining his right ankle May 10, took batting practice Sunday. Outfielder Marvin Benard, also on the DL, took batting practice four days after arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, which has been swollen. Neither's return is set.
ASTROS: Right-hander Kirk Saarloos was recalled from Triple-A New Orleans a day after starter Roy Oswalt was placed on the DL because of a right groin strain. Saarloos will work out of the bullpen.
ORIOLES: After the loss to the Devil Rays, designated hitter David Segui got into a heated exchange with Hall of Fame pitcher Jim Palmer, who offered players his insight after doing color commentary on TV. Segui shouted to Palmer, "If you want to coach, put on a uniform!" The two had to be separated by first base coach Rick Dempsey.
PADRES: Left-hander Mike Bynum was sent to Triple-A Portland to make room for Adam Eaton, who will come off the DL to start Tuesday.
TWINS: First baseman Doug Mientkiewicz left Sunday's game with a sprained left ankle and is expected to miss at least 10 days. His ankle landed on Chicago's Joe Crede's foot as Crede tagged him out. The Twins will decide today about putting him on the DL.
YANKEES: Pitcher Jose Contreras said he felt fine after allowing a double and two walks in 12/3 innings before reaching his pitch count of 35 for Double-A Trenton. He felt pain in his shoulder in a start for Triple-A Columbus.
OBITUARIES: Bill Buhler, the Dodgers trainer for 39 years, died Saturday. He was 75. He also was a part of the team that took care of pitcher Tommy John after he had the landmark reconstructive elbow surgery that bears his name. Also, Bill Thompson, who called Giants games from 1965-75, died Saturday of complications from a recent operation. He was 79.
