JETHAWKS REPORT : Wathan Trying to Play Catch-Up in Practice

Dusty Wathan caught in the bullpen and took batting practice Tuesday, reporting no pain and proving to himself and the coaching staff that he is ready to play.

Wathan has been out since May 21 because of tendinitis in his left wrist. He has pitched batting practice to keep his arm in shape.

“Augie had to remind me how to put the shinguards on,” Wathan said, referring to JetHawk catcher Andy Augustine.

With Wathan healthy, catcher Scott Steinmann will be sent back to Peoria, Ariz.

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The JetHawks are expecting to receive a pitcher from double A to start Saturday, but Manager Dave Brundage would not say who it is. Saturday is the first day the JetHawks will need a fifth starter to replace Ivan Montane, who was promoted April 28.

Steve Montgomery was scheduled to start for the High Desert Mavericks on Tuesday night against the JetHawks, but Montgomery fell down the dugout steps on Sunday in Lake Elsinore, injuring his back.

Montgomery was placed on the disabled list, though he is not as seriously hurt as feared when his right leg went numb after falling.

Brian Brewer, a left-hander, was sent down from double A to replace Montgomery and will pitch against the JetHawks tonight.

Marino Santana was the California League pitcher of the week. In two starts last week, Santana was 2-0. He gave up one run in 13 innings. . . . Shortstop Luis Molina, who is out for the season, is scheduled to have surgery Thursday to repair torn ligaments and tendons in his left knee.

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Tonight’s Game:

JetHawks (Brett Hinchliffe, 4-5, 4.79) at High Desert (Brian Brewer, 0-0), 7:05.