Counsell holds off on surgery
Melvin optimistic that shortstop can play on Opening Day

Nick Piecoro
The Arizona Republic
March 8, 2006

Craig Counsell received a cortisone shot on his right shoulder Tuesday, a sign that his recovery process won't include surgery - for now, at least.

After receiving three concurring opinions on how to treat the tear in his labrum, Counsell feels comfortable with his course of action, manager Bob Melvin said.

Melvin said he believed Counsell would be ready by Opening Day.

"As of right now, I'm encouraged," Melvin said.

Counsell wasn't available for comment. General Manager Josh Byrnes said the club would wait and see how the shortstop's shoulder responds.

"We'll go through the treatment and then see how he looks on the field and how he feels," Byrnes said.

On Sunday, Counsell was examined by Dr. Lewis Yocum, the Los Angeles Angels' team physician, and on Monday he visited Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, Ala.

Those came after a visit to Diamondbacks team physician Dr. Michael Lee.

Melvin said Counsell would return to baseball activities later in the week.