Blanton to seek second opinion on elbow

The Phillies are still unsure of the problems inside Joe Blanton's right elbow, and they are sending the pitcher for an ultrasound examination Tuesday followed by a visit to Dr. James Andrews, the renowned orthopedist, on Wednesday.

Those are words a pitcher never wants to hear. Blanton expressed some doubt as to what is going on in his elbow. He will be prevented from throwing for at least 10 to 14 days and it could be longer depending on what the next two days find.

"It's still kind of up in the air," Blanton said.

Blanton said the original diagnosis of an impingement in his right elbow has led to tendinitis and inflammation. A second MRI done showed nothing new, other than another spot of inflammation.

The ultrasound could show if there are tendons or ligaments rubbing up against each other, causing the pain.

Blanton expects to miss at least a few weeks because the Phillies will be more deliberate in their rehab process. He missed just 16 days during his last stint on the disabled list. This time, he will definitely throw in at least one minor-league rehab game before returning.

And that's if the ultrasound and Andrews' examination show nothing significant.

Vance Worley will take Blanton's spot in the rotation Tuesday and for the unforeseen future.

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