May 15, 2008 Michael Barrett (strained elbow) could be sent out on a minor league rehab assignment as early as next week, according to MLB.com. "Michael is going to throw to the bases on Friday in Seattle to further test the elbow," Padres manager Bud Black said, "but he's making great strides. With the bat, he's swinging great, so there's no issue swinging the bat at all."
Our View:Josh Bard has really struggled at the plate barely hitting above .200 as he has been dealing with his own health concerns, so the Padres would welcome back Barret with open arms when he proves himself to be healthy.
May 7, 2008 The San Diego Union Times reported on Tuesday that catcher Michael Barrett played catch for the third time since he sprained his elbow on April 7, but is still more than two weeks from returning to active duty.
Our View:Barrett played in three games and recorded eight at-bats before going on the disabled list.
April 30, 2008 Michael Barrett is still at least three weeks away from playing for the Padres, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. He has been sidelined since April 7 by a sprained throwing elbow, and Manager Bud Black said surgery hasn't been ruled out but also isn't being discussed.
Our View:Josh Bard will remain the undisputed starter in San Diego for a few more weeks, but Bard is only hitting .214 over 84 at-bats, and Barrett would cut into his playing time upon his return.
April 25, 2008 Michael Barrett is still not cleared to throw, according to MLB.com. Barrett is on the DL with a elbow strain, and he will need at least another seven to 10 days before he can start throwing a baseball. Manager Bud Black noted that he doesn't think Barrett will need surgery.
Our View:This isn't seen as a setback for Barrett, as the original timetable for his return was initially pegged at two weeks to two months. Josh Bard will remain the undisputed starter in San Diego, and Colt Morton will serve as the top backup.
April 22, 2008 Michael Barrett will have his right elbow strain re-evaluated this week after the Padres return to San Diego, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. He has been on the DL since April 8.
Our View:Josh Bard will remain the undisputed starter in San Diego, and we will keep you posted on Barrett's status.
