Valentin update

[victor2111]

Reds manager Dusty Baker said a MRI of Javier Valentin’s left hamstring is normal, and the catcher is expected to be “100 percent in a couple of days.”

Valentin was evaluated Saturday morning following an injury sustained Friday. He left in the sixth inning of the Reds’ 8-4 loss to the Phillies after running to first base on a single.

For now, Baker said the injury won’t require a move to the disabled list.

“It’s not as bad as we thought. It’s actually better than we thought. He’s been able to pinch hit, he’ll catch in an emergency. We just have to watch him run. It’s not like he’s a speed demon anyway,” Baker said.

Valentin said the injury couldn’t come at a worse time. The season is new and he had been hitting well: on Friday he was 2-for-3 with a double.

He said he initially felt something wrong when he hit the double.

“It just didn’t feel right,” Valentin said. “I was thinking something’s going to happen. As the game went on I felt it more when I swing.”

Valentin said he still has little tightness in his upper leg, but is otherwise healthy.

“In a couple days it’ll be fine,” Valentin said.

[The Duke]

I'd really like to see Hannigan get another shot. He's be the best defensive option with Ross out.

[powerofcincy]

Bako has proven he can hit well though, and is solid behind the plate. I agree with Marty, Bako should be ahead of Valentin on the depth chart.

[The Duke]

Valentin is a pinch hitter who can catch if need be.