Marcus

Giles

Giles has missed three games. A trip to the DL hasn’t been ruled out, but isn’t likely.

Giles appeared as a pinch-hitter last night. He hasn’t had any headaches since Sunday, but has soreness in his left shoulder -- ''like whiplash,’' he said.

There is also a chance Giles could miss the All-Star game.

Giles isn’t hurt, but his value could be as long as the Braves continue to use him, DeRosa, and Vinny Castilla to man two positions.

Giles is hitting 12-for-20 (.600) off southpaws, which is quite impressive given his .158 average against them in 2002. Overall, Giles has been one of April’s best values, hitting .363 with four homers, 14 RBI, 19 runs, and two stolen bases.

''It’s irritating,’' Giles said. ''To be honest with you, I’m going to have to play with pain all year. It’s not something I can’t handle, but I’m just going to have to play through it.’' Giles might be a little too discouraged at the moment, but he’s probably right that the problem will linger. It’s not enough of a problem to make him someone to avoid in fantasy leagues.

It’s an aggravation of an old injury. Giles tore two ligaments in the ankle last season, but the injury isn’t nearly as severe this time. He hopes to be back in the lineup tonight, but manager Bobby Cox is considering giving him one more day off.

Giles was hurt when he was jammed by a pitch on Sunday. “I’m all right; if it was the regular season I would have played,” he said.

Giles hadn’t played since having his wisdom teeth pulled Tuesday.

Giles has not started a game since being hit with a David Wells pitch on Wednesday, and will not play today. Jesse Garcia will continue to start in his absence at 2B.