Rey

Ordoñez

That’s already a sixth of the way to his total from last season (42). What’s sad is that even a career year from Ordonez wouldn’t be worth owning.

Ordonez, like all the great ones, must want to go out on top, as he’s hitting .326 with a home run and 10 RBI. Actually, he says he wants to spend more time with his family, and will think about it more in September. B.J. Upton is Tampa’s shortstop of the future, but the teenager won’t be ready for quite some time, so if Ordonez retires, the Rays will have to locate another short-term solution.

Ordonez has a targeted return date of June 10. His return could push Julio Lugo to third base.

Ordonez had been targeting June 10 for his return, but manager Lou Piniella’s timetable makes that sound unlikely. Piniella said Ordonez could begin baseball-related activities in about a week, followed by a rehab assignment.

Ordonez had the nail removed in spring training. He keeps the toe heavily taped, but has been limping lately. Ordonez never hit like this when his toe was fine, so maybe that explains it.

The Rays are going to try to re-sign Ordonez and move Julio Lugo to second base. Marlon Anderson will be non-tendered next month.

There is no date set for Ordonez’s return, but the Padres hope to have him back tomorrow or Saturday.

“That’s going to be a very difficult decision,” Bochy said yesterday. If Bochy feels the team has enough offense, he could opt to go with Ordonez’s defense behind his young pitchers.

The Padres probably wouldn’t ask for much in return, but the A’s figure to continue to explore other options for now. They could look for a starting second baseman or a reserve with the ability to play shortstop.

Ordonez likely will get his release at some point, but if any clubs want him prior to Opening Day, they’re going to have to trade for him.