Marlins Star Headed for DL

It appears shortstop Hanley Ramirez will make his first trip to the disabled list Monday, as the Marlins admitted Saturday they are concerned he could be out awhile.  A Friday MRI showed inflammation in his lower back.

The injury that’s kept the three time All-Star out of Florida’s lineup since last Sunday has caused Ramirez the worst pain of his career.

"“I feel it doing anything. I can’t even put my shoes on. To get up from bed I have to take 10, 15 seconds. I have to do everything slow. That’s the worst pain I’ve ever had in my life, in my career, that back…“I’m getting tingles in my (upper left) leg. That’s not a good sign. That’s what we’re worried about right now, to get this thing out of my leg.”"

Ramirez has struggled so far this year.  In 48 games the 27 year old has only mustered a .210 batting average and an OPS of .615.  His slugging % is down about 200 points from his career mark because he’s managed only 10 extra base hits this season.

Emilio Bonifacio has taken over at short for the Marlins in Ramirez’s absence.  Florida will be down its second superstar if Ramirez joins Cy Young candidate Josh Johnson on the DL.