Josh Hamilton Is Back on the DL, Pete Mackanin Is Slightly Crazy

Ahh, the one thing that can derail a potentially special season- injuries. For the second time this year, Josh Hamilton is going on the disabled list, this time with an injured wrist. The first time he went on (for gastroenteritis) it kind of seemed like it was the Reds' way of getting him some downtime and a rehab stint in AAA since they can't remove him from their roster (remember, he's a Rule 5 player). This time, the injury is a little more serious and he's going back to Cincy to get an MRI and have everything checked out.

The time on the DL will be retroactive to last Sunday, meaning he's already almost halfway through his fifteen days if he heals quickly. While he's out, Norris Hopper will take his place. That seems to excite Reds interim manager Pete Mackanin:

"I want Hopper to play. (Hopper's) got something. I don't know what it is, but he's got something," Reds manager Pete Mackanin said. "Ever since I saw him in spring training last year, I've liked him. I saw him pinch hit and he's pretty aggressive for a little (guy). From what I've seen, games I've watched, he's done good things. He's a good player, somewhat limited, but I'd like to see him out there."

On the year, Hopper is hitting .270/.323/.339. You don't need me to tell you this, but that's much worse than Hamilton's .279/.371/.543. I don't know what Hopper's got either.