Dodgers catcher Russell Martin says groin strain is 'not anything major'

Russell Martin was back in the Dodgers’ clubhouse on Sunday morning, saying he was relieved after getting the results of the MRI exam he had undergone the previous day.

“They said I’ve got like a little strain, somewhere either in the lower abdomen or groin area,” he said. “It’s not anything major. It’s more of a preventive type of thing.”

Martin said he didn’t know how long he would be shut down. He said he first felt a twinge in his groin area in a base-running drill a few days ago but didn’t think anything of it.

But the discomfort returned when Martin stole second base during the Dodgers’ Cactus League opener against the Chicago White Sox on Friday.

“That’s when it bit me a little bit,” he said.

-- Dylan Hernandez

Photo: Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Russell Martin, left, talks with a coach during spring training in Arizona on Feb. 22, 2010. Credit: Mark Duncan / Associated Press

Comments

[psbill]

First game of spring and a much heavier (muscular) Russell is stealing. I hope that Joe will protect this talent and utilize him in a way that will allow Russell to contribute in the most productive manner. Stealing bases may not be the best way to maximize this players talent or contribution to the team's success. He can be a very productive hitter, and this is what he should be focusing on.

[Hollywood Dodger Mark]

Apparently not! Martin out 4-6 weeks. A.J. Ellis opening day catcher for Your Los Angeles Dodgers. Great news. He has to be better than Martin. This is the break we need to see if Ellis can do the job. What a gift for young Ellis. HGH might have caused strain on Martin's small frame. But so be it. He was painful to watch last year. Go Ellis!