Henry

Owens

It was originally reported that Heath Bell was being recalled to replace Pedro Martinez, but he remains in the minors and Owens is now with the big club. The 27-year-old Owens will be making his major league debut after posting a 1.01 ERA and a 51/8 K/BB ratio in 25 innings for Binghamton. He has a chance to be a setup man if his arm holds up.

''Kevin Gregg has been good, and we’ve got to give him the opportunity to keep doing it,’' manager Fredi Gonzalez said. Gregg has allowed just one run in his past 12 outings and he notched his third save of the season Sunday.

Owens should be ready when he is eligible to come off the DL on Thursday. With Kevin Gregg doing a great job in the closer role the Marlins are expected to ease Owens back into a late-inning role in the bullpen.

Owens pitched well before getting hurt and was sharp in his rehab assignment, but he’s still lost his job as the Marlins’ closer. He’ll act as a setup man for Kevin Gregg for now.

He allowed one hit and struck out two. Owens seems ready after throwing three scoreless innings on his rehab assignment, but he apparently will make one more appearance before coming off the DL.

Owens, who was eligible to be activated from the DL on Thursday, could join the Marlins this weekend. He has lost the closer role, but he is first in line should Kevin Gregg struggle.

Owens is eligible to come off the DL on Thursday. He won’t be ready quite that soon, but it might not be much longer. Kevin Gregg has taken over as the favorite for saves in his absence.

Manager Fredi Gonzalez said Thursday Owens might be with the club this weekend, but now the Marlins are projecting a return in five to seven days.

Owens could undergo immediate surgery on the shoulder if Dr. Andrews deems in necessary.

Owens will miss the remainder of the season and could miss some or all of the 2008 season depending on what Dr. James Andrews needs to repair during the procedure.