Blanton to DL is Official

Joe Blanton is the next Phillies pitcher headed toward the disabled list to start the season, lengthening the list that already included JC Romero and Brad Lidge. Blanton halted a side session Wednesday when he felt pain in his oblique region. He met with doctors Thursday and the decision was made to shut him down for 3-6 weeks, as he was officially diagnosed with an oblique strain.

The injury to Blanton now tussles the pitching staff that was previously ironed out. Just a couple days ago Kyle Kendrick was informed he'd be pitching in a relief role, while Jamie Moyer would take the Phils' fifth starter spot. Now, Kendrick is likely needed to fill Blanton's void in th starting rotation.

Phillies team physician Michael Ciccotti stated that this injury would not return if treated correctly. Phans might remember that Clay Condrey dealt with similar issues late last season, and he ended up reinjuring his oblique area after rehabbing for a month. "Jay" Happ missed two starts in September with a similar strain, and recovered well with no lingering problems.

The team has options the fill the roster spot with Sergio Escalona and Drew Carpenter having seen time with the big club last year and during this spring season. Mike Stutes and BJ Rosenberg were already slated to make the trip north with the Phillies for this weekend's On-deck Series against the Pirates in Philadelphia. The On-deck Series is an annual pair of pre-season games that the Phils play at home just before opening day.

More updates as they become available.

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