Berkman misses finale, hopes to return Tuesday

By T.R. Sullivan and Master Tesfatsion

June 30, 2013

ARLINGTON -- Lance Berkman, who missed his third straight game Sunday, hopes to return to the lineup Tuesday after the Rangers' off-day. He said he felt better Sunday and doesn't expect to require a stint on the disabled list or an MRI on his right knee.

Berkman said the oddity of his latest injury can be compared to when he tore his ACL in the same knee playing flag football after the 2004 season with the Astros.

"At this point, I'm used to dealing with aches and pains," Berkman said.

Nelson Cruz replaced Berkman as the team's designated hitter for Sunday's finale vs. the Reds. Leonys Martin started in right field and Engel Beltre played center.

"It's the American League," Berkman said. "It's not like I'm replacing a pitcher. I'm not significantly better than anyone in the lineup. Who would I be pinch-hitting for?"

T.R. Sullivan is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Postcards from Elysian Fields, and follow him on Twitter @Sullivan_Ranger. Master Tesfatsion is an associate reporter for MLB.com.