Furcal Joins Garland; Padilla Not Ready

 Jon Garland is not the only Dodger heading to the disabled list today.  He will be joined by veteran infielder Rafael Furcal, who hits the 15 day DL with a left oblique strain.

Furcal left last night’s game against the Reds after only two innings after throwing out a runner at third.  He was said to have discomfort in his side.

The 33 year old just returned from a prior stint on the team’s injured list.  Furcal was only able to play in 10 games before heading back to the DL.

Furcal was first forced to miss time due to a broken thumb he sustained early in April.  The veteran was very frustrated by the injury, initially stating he was considering retirement.  He quickly backed off those comments, blaming them mostly on frustration.

This second setback will certainly discourage the Dodgers shortstop.  Furcal has only been able to play in 17 games in 2011, and has been very ineffective at the plate for LA.  Batting leadoff for the team, Furcal has held a lackluster line of .212/.246/.273.

Ivan DeJesus will join the club and fill Furcal’s open roster spot.

LA announced that they have called up reliever John Ely to take Garland’s place, as Vicente Padilla is not yet ready to be activated from the DL.