Rays leave closer Troy Percival off ALDS roster

[October 03, 2008]  ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) -- Tampa Bay closer Troy Percival was left off the Rays' roster for their AL division series against the Chicago White Sox due to back tightness.

Percival had 28 saves this season, but just one came after Aug. 13. In addition to the back injury, the 39-year old right-hander missed 42 games during three stints on the disabled list with left hamstring and right knee injuries.

 "I still have the concern about his health," Rays manager Joe Maddon said before Thursday's opener.

Dan Wheeler filled in for Percival, and converted 13 of 18 save opportunities.

Rookie left-hander David Price, taken first overall in the 2007 amateur draft, made the Rays' playoff roster, which was finalized Thursday. He went 12-1 with a 2.30 ERA in 19 minor league games at three levels this season before posting a 1.93 ERA in one start and four relief appearances with Tampa Bay.

[Associated Press]

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