Baldelli expected to offer update
Rays OF Rocco Baldelli is expected to provide clarity on his playing status and reveal at least some details of his mysterious medical condition today.
By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Published March 12, 2008
Rays OF Rocco Baldelli is expected to provide clarity on his playing status and reveal at least some details of his mysterious medical condition today.
Baldelli, sidelined since May with hamstring woes, is still having problems with the muscles in his legs. He said there has been no "specific diagnosis," but amid rumors of serious illness he recently ruled out multiple sclerosis, a rare blood disorder or complications from steroids.
Baldelli, 26, is likely to acknowledge today he won't be ready to start the season, which allows the Rays to move forward in finding a replacement, but is expected to continue his comeback attempt and not retire, as has been speculated. The Rays have to decide by April 1 on a $6-million option for 2009 or a $4-million buyout.