July 11, 2008 Merkin Valdez might be sent to visit Dr. James Andrews in Alabama regarding the continuing soreness in his pitching elbow, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View:He already visited Dr. Lewis Yocum, and has been on the DL since May 15.
July 9, 2008 Merkin Valdez has suffered another setback in his recovery from an elbow strain, so he will not go to the Arizona rookie league on a rehab assignment as was scheduled, according to the SF Chronicle. His elbow was sore Tuesday, and manager Bruce Bochy said, "We're going to have to find out what's going on."
Our View:Valdez has a strong arm and array of pitches, but has had poor luck staying healthy.
July 6, 2008 Merkin Valdez, who is recovering from a strained right elbow, threw a bullpen session Saturday and remains on schedule to begin a minor-league rehab assignment this week, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View:Valdez has good stuff and only allowed three earned runs over 16 innings this season, but his fantasy value is limited as a middle reliever.
July 3, 2008 Giants manager Bruce Bochy said that right-hander Merkin Valdez will begin throwing off the mound on Friday, this according to the team website. Valdez, who strained his throwing elbow, will report to the Giants' training facility in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Our View:Valdez was 1-0 with a 1.69 ERA in 17 appearances before being disabled.
June 29, 2008 Merkin Valdez, who is trying to bounce back from a strained right elbow, threw off flat ground for the third time on Saturday, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View:Manager Bruce Bochy feels he is coming along, but remains a while away from returning. The team is going to take it slow with him, and could be back in late July.
