Gamel sidelined by shoulder

One of the Brewers’ top prospects is beginning the 2009 season right where he ended 2008: On the sidelines.

Third baseman Mat Gamel was the last Brewer to report for Spring Training on Wednesday and he arrived complaining of shoulder pain. Gamel’s physical exam revealed an impingement similar to the one that is sidelining outfielder Tony Gwynn, Jr., and both players will refrain from throwing until the pain goes away. 

Gamel earned a September call-up last season but was sent home early when he revealed a strained right elbow that apparently had been bothering him for some time. The shoulder problem came as a similar surprise.

“He gave no indication of it,” assistant general manager Gord Ash said. “He said it happened just before he got here.”