Rangers’ Adrian Beltre to miss at least two weeks with sprained thumb

Texas Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre will miss at least two weeks with a sprained left thumb that he also cut while sliding into second base Sunday.

X-rays were negative, and team physician Dr. Keith Meister diagnosed a sprain after examining Beltre. The third baseman, who was being fitted for a splint, also needed four stitches for a cut he sustained on the play.

Beltre was slow to get up after sliding into second base in the fifth inning of the series finale against the visiting Boston Red Sox. He was retired on a fielder’s choice on the play.

Replays showed Beltre’s left hand was sliding across the ground when it got close to the base. The Rangers initially said he jammed his thumb.

Adam Rosales replaced Beltre at third base when Texas took the field in the sixth.

Etc.

Detroit Tigers star Justin Verlander struggled in his first rehabilitation start, giving up three runs in 2 2/3 innings for Triple-A Toledo in Indianapolis. The former American League MVP and Cy Young Award winner is trying to work his way back into the Tigers’ rotation from a right triceps injury he sustained in spring training. The Tigers have not announced whether Verlander will continue his rehab or join the major league team. ...

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