Reds ready to face obstacles without Bailey

CINCINNATI -- The Reds are bracing themselves to not have starting pitcher Homer Bailey for a while. Exactly how long depends on the route Bailey and the club takes after he was diagnosed on Monday with a right elbow sprain and placed on the 15-day disabled list.

No decisions have been made. Elbow surgery is possible, which would certainly cost Bailey the rest of the season.

"That's one option," Reds manager Bryan Price said on Tuesday. "There's other ways to do things. You can get stronger, [and] all the PRP [platelet-rich plasma injections]. There are other options beyond surgery."

Bailey declined to speak with reporters.

"I can't tell you anything," Bailey said.

Bailey made two starts this season after returning from September surgery that repaired a torn flexor mass tendon near the same right elbow. He was counted on being a big part of the rotation this season for Cincinnati to contend.

Video: MIL@CIN: Reds' booth gives update on Bailey's injury

Instead, prospect Michael Lorenzen was called up to start on Wednesday vs. the Brewers and take Bailey's place in the rotation.

The Reds are dealing with the loss of not only Bailey, but also catcher Devin Mesoraco since he's been limited to only pinch-hitting duty because of a left hip injury. This could be a big early test for the Reds to pick up and carry on without two key players.

"So we have to continue to believe we have an outstanding team, because I think we do," Price said. "We also have to test our system to see where we are.

"We're definitely being challenged. As you look around, most teams get challenged over the course of the year. We were challenged more than many last year. I think we can weather the current position we're in. I think we can use it as a rallying point."