Ottavino to learn extent of injury Monday

SAN DIEGO -- They say exercise produces endorphins that soothe the mind, but Rockies closer Adam Ottavino's intense lower-body and cardiovascular workout on Friday could only do so much. Ottavino's future will be determined Monday when he meets with Rockies medical director Dr. Thomas J. Noonan about his triceps and elbow injuries.

"I stay in shape," Ottavino said, resting but unable to shake the worry. "I just follow what they tell me to do."

For now, Ottavino is on the 15-day disabled list with right triceps inflammation. However, MRI results Tuesday showed inflammation where the triceps tendon attaches above the elbow. The inflammation in the elbow area raises concern that there could be damage in the elbow ligament.

Several doctors and radiologists have done their examinations, but Noonan will provide the final diagnosis.

The time between the initial MRI and Monday was planned as "part of the process," Ottavino said, and can't be classified as a lack of concern on the team's part. Ottavino said Noonan will go over the MRI readings with him and do a physical exam.

Named the closer after LaTroy Hawkins struggled out of the gate (and later went to the DL with right biceps tendinitis), Ottavino was 1-0 with 13 strikeouts and three saves in 10 games, covering 10 1/3 scoreless innings.

Triceps issues have come up for Ottavino in the past, but this was different.

"I've had lots of aches and pains, but the last couple times out it just didn't feel right," he said. "I'm dealing with more pain during the game.

"Nobody has said anything concretely about anything. Until you are evaluated by a doctor … Those are the people who make those calls."