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Rays Will Announce Perez's Status Today

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By MARC LANCASTER

mlancaster@tampatrib.com

Published: March 12, 2009

ST. PETERSBURG - The Rays are expected to announce the status of Fernando Perez today after the outfielder had more tests on his injured left wrist Wednesday.

Perez had an arthrogram under the supervision of Doug Carlan, the St. Petersburg-based hand specialist who treated Evan Longoria after the third baseman broke his wrist in August.

An arthrogram is a more sophisticated X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging exam in which dye is injected into the problem area before images are taken.

Perez was injured in the first inning of Tuesday's game against the Blue Jays in Port Charlotte when he rolled over on his wrist while attempting to make a diving catch. He had tests in Port Charlotte and left the Rays' spring training complex early in the evening wearing a brace on his wrist.

Rays executive vice president Andrew Friedman said Tuesday "it's certainly possible" Perez could be sidelined for an extended period of time, but the team wouldn't be sure until all the tests were run.

The 25-year-old, who impressed in a reserve role after being called up to the majors for the first time Aug. 31, was no lock to make the Opening Day roster before the injury. His status likely was dependent on B.J. Upton's return from shoulder surgery, with Perez the likely replacement if Upton isn't deemed ready to open the season.

Reporter Marc Lancaster can be reached at (813) 259-7227.

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