Ruiz, Wigginton, Nix sidelined

Charlie Manuel's bench could be quite short for Wednesday's series finale against New York. The manager said three players — Carlos Ruiz, Ty Wigginton and Laynce Nix — are plagued by minor injuries. Their availability is in question.

Ruiz "jammed" his hand, Manuel said, but details beyond that were not available. The injury was serious enough to preclude Ruiz from participating in batting practice with his teammates. Brian Schneider started at catcher.

Wigginton had soreness in his side, Manuel said. He too did not take batting practice, although Manuel said Wigginton told him he could hit.

Nix was slowed Tuesday by a sore calf and he continued to experience issues Wednesday. Nix was used as a decoy pinch-hitter in Tuesday's game, but Manuel said he could have hit. If he had reached base, he would require a pinch-runner.

Nix participated in batting practice Wednesday. John Mayberry Jr. started at first base, his third straight start.

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