Rick

Reed

Reed wanted to stay in the game yesterday, but was overruled by manager Ron Gardenhire. He’s day-to-day.

Reed suffered a pulled groin muscle Thursday. ''He looked great today,’' said pitching coach Rick Anderson.

Reed felt okay after treating his injury with ice, but the plane ride to California ''might have done something to him,’' manager Ron Gardenhire said. Johan Santana will replace Reed in the rotation. Micheal Nakamura could be called up from Triple-A Rochester if Reed is forced to the DL.

The Royals are in a bit of a downspin, and could be without Mike Sweeney for this game, so leave Reed active.

The Twins are optimistic that Reed will only miss one start. Since Reed needs to pitch 194 1/3 innings to kick in an $8 million option for 2004, the Twins are smart to be extra cautious here. That’s one salary they don’t want on the books next year.

Reed should be ready to rejoin the rotation this week, but there is no set date for his return. He’s fallen behind Ryan Vogelsong in the competition for a rotation spot, so he’s can’t afford to take his time.

Reed missed his last start with some stiffness. When he’ll next pitch in a game is uncertain, but he remains in contention for a rotation spot.

Reed will take part in fielding drills today. He’s expected to get into a game before the end of the week.

Reed lives near Cincinnati in the offseason. If he’s willing to take a $1 million contract, it’s possible that he’ll end up with the Reds, a team he pitched for briefly in 1995.

If the Pirates land Reed, Ryan Vogelsong can wave goodbye to his chances of winning a rotation spot. Yan would probably only be brought in on a minor league deal.