Zobrist activated; Cannizaro designated

INF Ben Zobrist, pins removed from his fractured left thumb, will be activated for Tuesday's game against the Yankees.

It's been a test of patience for Zobrist, who was groomed for the super utility role this spring before suffering the injury sliding into second March 9. Zobrist has missed the entire season, but after four rehab games in Vero Beach, he felt he was ready.

Zobrist could get some action soon, as manager Joe Maddon said he plans to give SS Jason Bartlett and 2B Akinori Iwamura a day off at some point in the coming days.

To make room, Andy Cannizaro was designated for assignment.

With Cannizaro gone, that puts the 40-man roster at 38. The Rays will need a spot Saturday, when RHP Juan Salas must be reinstated from the restricted list.

-- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com

With a cast on his left hand last March, Ben Zobrist takes some practice throws during batting practice. [James Borchuck, Times files]

Comments

[JAMES MCMILLEN]

IT IS SUCH A PLEASURE TO WATCH A GAME WITHOUT THE ANNOUNCERS RUINING IT BY OVERANALIZING EVERY PLAY AND/OR TALKING ENDLESSLY ABOUT SOMETHING NOT DIRECTLY RELATED TO THE GAME. JOE MAGRANES SUTTLE INSITES INTO THE GAME & PLAYER IS BRIEF AND TO THE POINT AND DEWAYNE STAATS HAS ONE OF THE CLEAREST VOICES IN THE BUSINESS.

[John]

They should have given Cannizaro more time to prove his worth.

[Brian]

I really wouldn't want to inject anyone right now in the lineup, but what we have now that it's working. I tell you right now Bartlett is working and making some fantastic grabs.

[jeff]

Let's get some butts in the seats Ray's fans.

[Brad Mofsky]

I hope he can help,without disrupting the chemistry of the team,that they have had without him.