Flexor mass strain sets Latos back another two weeks

Cincinnati Reds pitcher Mat Latos will miss another 10 to 14 days after an MRI revealed a flexor mass strain in his right forearm.

It wasn’t the news Latos was hoping for, but he was encouraged to find out there is nothing wrong his the ulnar collateral ligament and that he won’t need to have a third surgery in six months.

“It’s not ideal, but it’s not the worst thing in the world,” said Latos, who had bone chips removed from his elbow in October and underwent knee surgery in February.

“The exact words from (Reds Medical Director Tim) Kremcheck were, ‘The UCL looks strong,’” Latos said. “But there’s some inflammation and some fluid in there. The good news is that it wasn’t the UCL, but then the rest of it, that wasn’t the fun part of it.”

Latos has not pitched since a rehab with the double-A Pensacola Blue Wahoos on April 3. He was scheduled to pitch for triple-A Louisville on Wednesday but was scratched due to the soreness in his elbow.

“It’s a setback in his recovery,” Reds manager Bryan Price said. “It’s more time off to let it recover, let it simmer down, get the inflammation out and then let it start back up. He’ll keep working hard on staying in shape and doing all the other things he’s capable of doing. His date will definitely be set back fairly significantly.”

Honoring Harmon: The Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame & Museum announced Sunday that Chuck Harmon is the 2014 recipient of the Powel Crosley Jr. Award, which honors individuals who have displayed dedication, devotion an service to the Reds organization over an extended period of time.

Harmon, who in 1954 became the first African-American to play for the Reds, will receive the award Tuesday – Jackie Robinson Day – during an on-field ceremony at Great American Ball Park prior to the 7:10 p.m. game against Pittsburgh.

“We are extremely pleased to recognize Chuck Harmon for his tremendous courage, strength of character and devotion to the Reds for over 60 years,” said Rick Walls, Reds Hall of Fame & Museum executive director. “Whether it is appearing in the community or signing autographs for his many fans, Chuck truly represents everything that is positive about the game of baseball and the Cincinnati Reds.”

Harmon will meet with fans and sign autographs from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Hall of Fame & Museum. The signing is free with museum admission.

Thursday will mark the 60th anniversary of Harmon's debut with the Reds, and he will celebrate his 90th birthday April 23.

Blue streak: Umpire Tim Welke worked his 4,000th MLB game Sunday while manning third base at GABP.

Welke, who broke into the majors in 1984, has umpired in four World Series, seven League Championship Series, seven Division Series and two All-Star games.

Today's game: The six-game homestand continues with the first of three contests against the Pittsburgh Pirates at 7:10 p.m.

Reds right-hander Homer Bailey (0-1) will face Pittsburgh lefty Wandy Rodriguez (0-2). Bailey is 8-5 with a 2.91 ERA in 16 career starts against the Pirates, including a no-hitter in 2012. The eight wins are his most against any team.

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