Victorino Set to Return From Hamstring Injury

By Fred Guzman

Shane Victorino is scheduled to return from the 15-day disabled list today when the Philadelphia Phillies play host to the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Victorino was placed n the DL on May 20 with a strained right hamstring.  The Phillies went 8-5 during gus absence and hold a two-game lead over the Florida Marlins in the National League East.

Victorino took part in four games as part of rehabilitation  assignment with the big-league club’s Class-A and Class-AA affiliates, collecting two hits in 13 at-bats with one homer, two runs and four RBI.

For the current season, Victorino has been one of Philadelphia’s most productive and consistent hitters, in a addition to his status as a multi-time Gold Glove-winner in centerfield.  He’s batting .284 with six homers, five triples, 25 runs scored and 19 RBI.  Victorino also has eight steals.

The Phils are coming off a 2-1 road loss yesterday against Washington, while the Pirates blew a 7-0 lead in suffering a 9-8 loss.

Starting catcher Kurt Suzuki and his Oakland A’s were idle yesterday.

Closer to home, Na Koa Ikaika Maui again needed to work overtime for a victory.  Na Koa edged the Chico Outlaws 4-3 in 10 innings as Patrick Rose delivered a pinch-hit single to drive in Mark Okano.

The win improved their season record to 3-5.  The two teams meet again tonight at Iron Maehara Stadium.  The first pitch is scheduled for 6:35.