Detroit Tigers pitcher Dontrelle Willis was dealt another frustrating setback on Tuesday after an MRI has revealed patella tendonitis in his right knee.
Willis, 26, received a cortisone shot to reduce inflammation, and he was fitted for a knee brace to provide additional support.
It's the latest obstacle in what's been a trying season for the right-hander in his first year with the Tigers.
Willis hyperextended the same knee in April, and as a result was forced to go on the disabled list for the first time in his major-league career.
Control problems have also hurt the hurler all season long as he's posted a record of 0-1 with a 10.32 earned run average in five starts this season. That earned him a trip to the team's single-A affiliate in Lakeland, Fla., to undergo a program designed to help him regain command of his pitches.
In one appearance with the minor league club, the 2003 National League Rookie of the Year surrendered one run on one hit with three walks in two innings of work.
Willis was acquired by the Tigers in an eight-player deal with the Florida Marlins last December and was promptly signed to a three-year $29 million US extension.
With files from the Associated PressBlues to hire Doug Armstrong to front office position: source
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Stars shock Ducks for 2-0 series lead
The Dallas Stars scored three unanswered goals in the third period in a 5-2 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Saturday night.
Roy leads Canada to easy win over Norway
Paced by Derek Roy's hat trick, Canada overwhelmed Norway 8-2 in the quarter-finals of the world hockey championship on Wednesday afternoon in Halifax.
Contact Us About Us HomeThursday, August 28th, 2008