Dibble’s Shoulder Problems Might Be Similar to Hershiser’s

Rob Dibble, the Cincinnati Reds’ reliever who finished second in the National League with 31 saves last season, will undergo tests today that could reveal a seriously damaged right shoulder.

Sources said that during an examination by Dr. Frank Jobe at Dodgertown Sunday, Dibble’s shoulder joint was found to be loose, a symptom felt by Orel Hershiser before he underwent reconstructive surgery in 1990.

Jobe, who would not confirm any symptoms, sent Dibble back to the Reds’ training camp and ordered him to undergo a magnetic resonance imaging test. This is the same procedure that revealed Hershiser’s damage.

“He does have a sore shoulder, but I’d rather not say too much,” Jobe said. “I’ve recommended an MRI, but I don’t know when I’ll see him again, or even if I’ll see him again.”

Dibble has an 8.10 earned-run average this spring. He has given up six earned runs and 10 hits in 6 1/3 innings, with four strikeouts and seven walks.

Dibble is one reason the Reds have been favored by many to win the National League West title. His friends said he was worried Sunday.

“I know he’s not feeling too good about it,” the Dodgers’ Eric Davis said. “I just hope he’s OK.”