Scott

Linebrink

Linebrink would be a smart addition for the San Diego bullpen, which is a total mess.

The Padres will probably regret parting with Linebrink, not that Bell can’t step into the pen and do a decent job. Perez, back with his original team, is still a nice property for the future, but he can’t help now.

The rumored deal of Oliver Perez and Heath Bell for Linebrink likely was discussed, but it wasn’t finalized. Linebrink will stay with the Padres as a setup man. There’s no way he’ll go in a waiver deal.

Linebrink is expected to be ready for Tuesday’s game against Oakland.

In other words, Linebrink has officially been added to the 40-man roster and will make the Cardinals’ bullpen. The 35-year-old right-hander has an 0.93 ERA and 2/1 K/BB ratio over 9 2/3 innings this spring and should pitch in middle relief for St. Louis.

Linebrink pitched well this spring, posting a 0.93 ERA in 9 2/3 innings, but he suffered the injury in his final appearance. It’s not clear at this point how long the veteran reliever might be out. Victor Marte replaces him in the bullpen.

He threw 25 pitches in the first of what should be two or three sessions. It’s a step in the right direction for Linebrink, who hasn’t pitched since spring training. If all goes well, he could return to the Cardinals by mid-May.

Flu-like symptoms sidelined Linebrink over the weekend.

Linebrink will visit with an orthopedist this week to determine whether he has suffered a significant setback. The veteran right-hander has been on the disabled list since the start of the regular season because of shoulder capsulitis and remains out indefinitely.

Linebrink felt some tightness while running during conditioning drills. However, the issue is believed to be minor and he should resume throwing in a day or two. The 35-year-old right-hander signed a minor league deal with the Cards in February and is competing for a bullpen spot this spring.