64.20 Injuries Deplete Opening Day Roster

[Bob Breum]

The injury bug hit Montreal hard during Spring Training. The Blazers will be without first baseman Dan Wilkinson, right fielder Jedidiah Marzuq, utility man Matt Stoner, long reliever David Uribe, and middle reliever Huang Cheng.

Wilkinson sprained his ankle March 22 and is expected to return by April 8. The injury occurred while he was running the bases, which is not his strong suit. Jesus Ramos and Felix Alvarez are expected to fill in for him until he returns. Wilkinson's Diamond Glove will be sorely missed at first base, as will his bat. He hit .273/.326/.476 (124 OPS+) last season.

Marzuq was hurt February 28 while making a throw home from right field. His return is expected in mid-April. In his absence, Clancy Lee will slide over to right field and Manny Burgus will man left field. Marzuq hit .283/.337/.447 (121 OPS+) with 17 doubles and 12 steals in 249 plate appearances last season. This was to be his first full season as a starter.

Stoner was hurt March 18 while running the bases. He is expected to miss two months with a severe hip strain. The club is actively looking for a replacement in the trade market. This was to be Stoner's BBA debut.

Cheng suffered a herniated disc while pitching on March 28. Medical staff say that it not serious and he should be able to return soon. Cheng is new to the club, signed as a free agent to bolster the bullpen.

Uribe sprained his elbow on March 24. Doctors say that his recovery time is unclear. Last season Uribe was a key member of the bullpen, throwing 53 innings across 23 appearances to a 2.87 ERA (129 ERA+).

[trmmilwwi]

Depth being tested on opening day, gotta love OOTP.