Mariners RHP Batista leaves game

Jul 10, 2008 - 6:30 AM OAKLAND, California (Ticker) -- Seattle Mariners starter Miguel Batista left Wednesday's 6-4 victory over the Oakland Athletics in the third inning due to a strained right groin.

Batista had allowed just a solo home run to Jack Cust in the second, but after throwing three pitches to A's third baseman Donnie Murphy to start the third, Batista shook his right leg. Following a visit to the mound from head athletic trainer Rick Griffin, interim manager Jim Riggleman and pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre, Batista was replaced by reliever Ryan Rowland-Smith.

Riggleman said after the game that the injury wasn't serious. Batista won't pitch before the All-Star break, but Riggleman is hoping to have him back in the rotation to begin the second half.

The 37-year-old righthander was taking the place of the injured Erik Bedard, who won't start again until after the All-Star break due to tightness in his left shoulder. The start was Batista's first since June 25th after he was demoted to the bullpen.

Batista entered Wednesday's contest with a 4-10 record and 6.22 ERA.