One of the best comeback stories in baseball this season hit a bump Thursday when Troy Percival was placed on the 15-day disabled list.
The 38-year-old strained his left hamstring in Wednesday's game against Texas, when he exited out away from recording a save. He had an MRI that showed no structural damage, but the Rays still decided to give him an extended break. Percival said he expects to be ready to return by the time he is eligible to do so.
Percival had been a revelation this season for Tampa Bay. He had been in retirement for a year before he returned for the second half of 2007 as a middle reliever with the Cardinals.
He signed a free agent deal with the Rays last winter to become their closer. Percival has recorded 14 saves in 16 chances this season, posting a 2.95 ERA. He also has been credited with assisting the young Tampa Bay pitchers in their rapid rise during the team's surprising first-half run.
Right-hander Dan Wheeler, who recorded 20 saves for the Astros over the past two seasons, should see some ninth-inning duties during Percival's absence. However, manager Joe Maddon said he would use other relievers to close games.
WHITE SOX 5, RAYS 1: The surprising Rays still have the best record in the American League, but the opener of their four-game series against the White Sox was a dud.
Too bad, too, because it marked the first time the Rays have hosted a series in which both teams were in sole possession of first place in their division.
This momentous occasion drew a throng of 12,636 to Tropicana Field, and they saw a game that probably reminded them of Tampa Bay performances of the past.
The Rays went 2-for-14 with runners in scoring position, left nine men on base and committed an error.
