Diamondbacks outfielder Cody Ross was removed from a Cactus League game on March 3 against the Giants with discomfort in his lower left leg. It’s been two weeks and his return to action is not close.
According to MLB.com’s Steve Gilbert, Ross -- who was officially diagnosed with a left calf strain -- has barely even attempted to jog at a normal pace on the leg. “It’s just been slow,” manager Kirk Gibson told reporters on Saturday. “He’s done really no full weight-bearing stuff running-wise. He’s not ready for it. I think he went in the pool yesterday. I think the next step will be the Ultra G [treadmill], which they can unload some of the weight when he runs.”
It’s very possible that the 32-year-old will open the 2013 regular season on the 15-day disabled list.
Ross signed a three-year, $26 million contract with the Snakes this winter after batting .267/.326/.481 with 22 home runs and 81 RBI in 130 games last season with the Red Sox. He’ll start in right field once he’s healthy.