Jason Michaels battling minor back spasms

Astros outfielder Jason Michaels has missed two straight games while battling mild back spasms after a solid 1-for-3 performance, including a solo home run off New York Yankees right-hander Phil Hughes, in Houston's 10-8 loss Sunday afternoon.

The 34-year-old Michaels, one of the most popular players in the Astros' clubhouse, is hitting a stellar .375 (6-for-16) with a homer, RBI, double, 10 total bases and two runs scored this spring.

According to manager Brad Mills, it's a minor concern and something that hasn't been a lingering issue for the veteran outfielder.

"Jason is alright," Mills said. "He's got that back spasm. It's been acting up on him a little bit. Hopefully, he'll be okay. We'll see what he's like tomorrow. I hope it doesn’t stem from kind of favoring his shoulder. He’s been in the DH role for us so far this year, so we’ll see."

The Astros exercised a $900,000 club option on Michaels for 2011 back in early October after he hit .253 with eight homers and 26 RBI last season.

Out of his 47 total hits in 2010, 23 of them (49 percent) were for extra bases -- eight home runs, 14 doubles and one triple.  



(examiner.com)