When they said day-to-day, they really meant day-to-day. B.J. Upton is expected to return to the minor league playing field tomorrow and participate on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. Upton was originally schedule to return today to play defense and run bases, but early rain caused the minor league game to be canceled. This is really good news as Upton only missed two days of action after taking a pitch to the pinkie on Saturday. If all goes well, he could play in some grapefruit league games this week. His regular season target date remains April 13th.
Stephania Bell compares Upton's injury to an injury suffered by Hanley Ramirez last season
Last year, Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez made a successful return after a very similar offseason surgery, showing that there is precedent for Upton. Expect his debut to come in warm-weather games at home, and it may take him some time at the plate to regain his power.--Espn.com
Lance Cormier still hopes to make the club.
"I'd love the chance to pitch for the defending American League champions this year and try to do it again," Cormier said. "This is a great time to be a Ray. There's a lot of excitement here, the guys and the talent here. It would be awesome to be on this team. I'd definitely like to be a Ray."
Last year it would've been hard to find anybody saying "I'd definitely like to be a Ray." Cormier, a favorite of mine, has had a solid spring, but the reliever to opening ratio just don't match up right now. A trade or an injury could change that.
Note* With an off day tomorrow for the big club, Scott Kazmir will pitch in a minor league game to keep on schedule.