NY Mets |
The New York Mets have shut down backup catcher Ronny Paulino indefinitely pending blood work results, according to the NY Daily News.
Via the NY Daily News:
"His blood work came back, the doctors wanted some follow-up tests, and until that's done they don't want him on the field," said GM Sandy Alderson.
After an impressive rookie campaign, Josh Thole was expected to be the starter anyway, but Paulino was recently signed to be there to sub in for the lefty Thole against tough left-handed pitchers.
The team has reportedly said the recent tests are unrelated to Paulino's 50-game suspension by MLB for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs.
The suspension, given to Paulino late last season with 42 games left, extends eight games into the 2011 season.
But you've got to wonder if this has something to do with it.
Sketchy blood work results? Doesn't sound promising, whatever it is.
Paulino's absence from the Mets this season wouldn't be catastrophic by any means, but it still could hurt, and may have the team adding another right-handed hitting catcher to relieve Thole.
Thole hit .299 in 174 at-bats against right-handed pitchers last season, but hit only .143 in 28 at-bats against left handed pitchers.
It would be very risky to go into the season expecting him to largely hit against left-handed pitching, instead of working him in to those situations.
Sources: http://bleacherreport.com