Juan Gonzalez has a minor abdominal strain, slowing his attempt to return to the major leagues with the Cardinals.
Manager Tony La Russa said Thursday he scratched 38-year-old Gonzalez from the lineup card a day earlier.
Gonzalez, a two-time AL MVP who missed the last two years and had only one at-bat in 2005, said he was day to day.
Gonzalez felt a pull on his left side more than a week ago and has difficulty running. He has been able to take batting and fielding practice.
What? Really? Juan Gone has an injury that prevents him from running but allows him to field and hit? What’s all this? Holy no-fucking-way, Batman!
How could that be? How could González the Mighty and Uniquely Durable possibly break down just enough to avoid cardiovascular work when faced with the intimidating competition of Brian Barton and Joe Mather and a grueling two-day “road trip” against decent pitching staffs?
I can only hope that Tony La Russa can see it in his heart to let the old man stick around just a bit longer, considering La Russa’s overwhelming desire to be surrounded by youth. This is just so surprising and heartbreaking. I hope Cardinals fans everywhere can deal with the despair. Maybe there can be ice cream.
