Bootcheck Out 6 Weeks

The MRI results on reliever Chris Bootcheck came back today and showed a strained left internal oblique muscle, confirming the team's original prognosis.

According to team spokesman Tim Mead, Bootcheck will have six weeks of downtime, meaning he will open the season on the disabled list. The top candidates to take his spot in the bullpen are Jason Bulger and Rich Thompson, though Kasey Olenberger and Alex Serrano are dark-horse candidates.

Also, minor league infielder Ryan Mount had an MRI taken on his left knee and it revealed a sprained MCL after he injured it sliding into second base during Monday's game. His timetable to return is uncertain.