Larkin Sidelined at Least Four Weeks

The Cincinnati Reds will start the season without all-star shortstop Barry Larkin, who will be out at least four weeks after neck surgery Friday to correct a bulging disk.

Larkin will begin rehabilitation on his neck and shoulder Monday, the team said.

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Bip Roberts left Kansas City with some hard feelings toward the Royals last year. Apparently, the feelings were mutual.

Royal starter Jose Rosado hit Roberts in the ribs with a pitch in the first inning of Detroit’s 6-2 exhibition win over Kansas City on Friday. Roberts, clearly angered, was restrained as he walked to first base.

The Tigers retaliated by having A.J. Sager hit Jed Hansen leading off the Royals’ second. Umpire Dale Ford warned both sides to stop it.

The bad blood between Roberts and the Royals has been brewing since last July when his 15-year-old son, Lantavio, was in an automobile accident in San Diego. Roberts traveled home immediately to be with his son, but the Royals ordered him back to Kansas City.

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Former Angel pitcher Mark Langston, trying to earn a roster spot with the San Diego Padres, gave up six runs and nine hits and was pulled in the fourth inning of an 8-3 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers.