Ricky

Gutierrez

''We’re going to talk soon,’' said Gutierrez. ''My body just isn’t ready.’' Even with Omar Vizquel out and Brandon Phillips sent down, Gutierrez has no value right now.

''If everything progresses well, Ricky will get a chance to play in `A’ games,’' manager Eric Wedge said. ''And if there are no setbacks, he has a chance to get back with us to be the starter at third for us from the beginning of the season.’'

Gutierrez will make $4 million this year, and the buyout of his 2005 option will cost the Indians $750,000.

''It was his first time at third,’' manager Eric Wedge said. ''He didn’t get a whole lot of action, but he swung the bat well. He’ll play five or six innings (Thursday), take a day off, and we’ll work from there.’' Gutierrez is probably going to open the season on the disabled list, but it’s no lock yet. He’s made a lot of progress.

Gutierrez is eligible to be activated May 30. Depending on how soon he goes on a rehab assignment and how he performs, he could return soon after that.

Jhonny Peralta is expected to be sent down. Gutierrez will fill a utility role for the time being.

Gutierrez has missed much of the last two seasons with neck problems, and the Indians would like to see insurance cover his salary for this year. If Gutierrez is able to play, he’ll compete for a job as a utilityman.

Gutierrez will miss the first two months, giving Casey Blake an extended opportunity to establish himself as a regular.

With Casey Blake hitting well, Gutierrez should lose much of his playing time once Omar Vizquel returns. He has no fantasy value right now.

Gutierrez probably won’t be back until September and might not even return then. The Indians can collect insurance while he’s on the DL, so they won’t be in any hurry to bring him back.