Rays/MLB

Sabathia throws, feels 'just fine'

By Times Staff
Published April 10, 2006

CLEVELAND - Indians left-hander C.C. Sabathia did some light throwing Sunday for the first time since leaving the opener after only 21/3 innings.

Sabathia, on the disabled list with a strained abdominal muscle, reported no pain but did not have a timetable for his return.

"I made about 40 throws from 75 feet and felt just fine," he said. "It's not as bad as last year."

A year ago, Sabathia missed six weeks of spring training and didn't make his 2005 season debut until April 16 because of a similar ailment. His latest injury occurred April 2.

"I can definitely feel the difference, and I know it is not as bad," he said. "I'm following the trainers' program and everything seems to be progressing just fine."

ATHLETICS: Manager Ken Macha said centerfielder Mark Kotsay will sit out one of the games in the upcoming series at Minnesota. Kotsay has had a sore back for the last two seasons, a problem that artificial turf and long flights exacerbate.

ORIOLES: The team expanded its thin pitching staff to 12 players by purchasing the contract of reliever Cory Morris and designating catcher Raul Chavez for assignment.

ROYALS: Runelvys Hernandez, optioned to the minors after reporting to spring training several pounds overweight, had a rough first start in Triple-A. Hernandez allowed eight runs on seven hits and four walks, while striking out one in three innings.

[Last modified April 10, 2006, 01:57:00]