Elbow Injury Sidelines Ankiel Indefinitely

St. Louis Cardinal starting pitcher Rick Ankiel has a strained left elbow that will sideline him indefinitely.

Tests found damage to his elbow that was more extensive than the tendinitis that started bothering the left-hander after two innings of work March 3.

Manager Tony La Russa said there is no timetable for his return.

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The Minnesota House approved a stadium plan that could influence whether the Twins survive beyond this season. The Senate passed a stadium bill two weeks ago and the two chambers will now try to work out a compromise.

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Texas Ranger closer Jeff Zimmerman is expected to start the season on the disabled list after tests confirmed that he has tendinitis in his right elbow. John Rocker, will be the Ranger closer in the meantime.... New York Yankee third baseman Robin Ventura sprained his left ankle, making him questionable for next week’s season opener.... The Tampa Bay Devil Rays released outfielder Troy O’Leary.... The New York Mets purchased the contract of infielder John Valentin and added him to their 40-man roster.... The Houston Astros released journeyman pitcher C.J. Nitkowski, meaning the club probably will start the season without a left-handed long reliever.... The Detroit Tigers acquired right-handed setup man Jose Paniagua from the Colorado Rockies for pitcher Victor Santos and minor league infielder Ronnie Merrill.