It's Official: Baldelli to Start Season on DL

The Rays have announced that Rocco will start the season on the DL. In Rocco's own words:

Baldelli said he had some type of "metabolic, and/or mitochondrial abnormalities, basically along the lines my body isn't making or producing ATP the right way, and therefore not allowing my muscles to work as they should and recover like they're supposed to on a day-to-day basis."

Friedman stated that the team is unlikely to pick Rocco's option in 2009. This means they will give him a 4 million dollar buyout and perhaps try to resign him if his health improves.

We really feel for Rocco. His condition could be quite serious and is likely taking a tole on him both on and off the field. This is the kind of condition that may not necessarily need exercise to manifest itself. It could be that he is fatigues and sore everyday that he gets up. Here is hoping that Rocco can find out exactly what is wrong and also find a treatment. Wishing you the best Rocco

PA