Rays/MLB

AL: Knee flareup sends Boston's Wells back to DL

By Wire services
Published April 16, 2006

BOSTON - Left-hander David Wells went on the disabled list for the second time this season Saturday, another blow to the Red Sox rotation after they opened spring training with seven pitchers competing for five spots.

That group is down to four with the trade of Bronson Arroyo to Cincinnati and the success of Jonathan Papelbon as the closer. Lenny DiNardo, who has one start in 30 major-league games, probably will fill in Monday against Seattle.

Boston called up right-handed long reliever Jermaine Van Buren from Triple-A Pawtucket.

The Red Sox said Wells has a sprained right knee, which had offseason surgery. Wells said he was hurt when he ran to cover first base in his only start this season Wednesday night.

"When you have a bad knee, anything can happen at any given time," Wells said. "It's been tender. There's been good days and bad days."

COLOME JOINS YANKS: Former Devil Rays reliever Jesus Colome signed a minor-league deal with New York and will be assigned to Triple-A Columbus.

The right-hander, 28, spent five erratic seasons with Tampa Bay, going 11-22 with a 4.70 ERA in 186 games, fourth most in club history. He was released last week after leaving a game against Baltimore with shoulder stiffness.

The Yankees also signed former Tigers first baseman Carlos Pena to a minor-league deal. He hit .235 with 18 home runs and 44 RBIs in 79 games last season and is considered a strong defensive player.

Also, right-hander Carl Pavano (bruised buttocks) is scheduled Monday for his first mound session since late March.

TIGERS LOSE DH: Dmitri Young went on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right quadriceps. Young was hurt while running the bases in the sixth inning Friday. Detroit called up outfielder Alexis Gomez from Triple-A Toledo to replace him.

[Last modified April 16, 2006, 00:43:12]