Longoria's Status Update

Photo: TBO.com

   According to Rays manager Joe Maddon, Longoria's recovery from an oblique strain is "moving along pretty well." Maddon thinks that Longoria could be back in the lineup by the end of this month. Longoria will most likely have a short stint in the minors before rejoining the Rays on an everyday basis. If you own Longoria or are considering stealing him in a trade, keep a close eye on his rehab stint in the minors. Any signs of a weakened swing or short hopped throws could be a warning sign that Longoria's oblique isn't ready to start producing power numbers again. Remember that April is a warm-up month for many players and Longoria is missing out. Don't expect the Rays third baseman to be completely back to normal until summer time.