Blanks to the DL, Russell Back Up

The Padres have placed slumping outfielder Kyle Blanks on the 15-day DL with a strained right elbow and recalled reliever Adam Russell from Triple-A Portland.

I don’t know if Blanks’ injury really warrants DL time, but it makes sense for the Padres to give the slumping power hitter a break to recover from whatever ailments, mental and/or physical, are afflicting him.

The DL stint has the added benefit of allowing Blanks to go out on a rehab assignment, which the Padres could use almost like a mini-refresher course.

We’ll see how long Russell stays up, as he’s the 13th pitcher on the roster. Sean Gallagher may be due back soon, since he’s already made two effective rehab starts, so Russell’s time may be short unless the Padres opt to send someone else to Triple-A for Gallagher (Cesar Ramos or Ed Mujica, perhaps?).

Russell threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings yesterday, striking out two and allowing just his first hit of the year (in 5 2/3 innings with San Diego). He continues to dominate from the bullpen.

No corresponding move to fill Russell’s AAA slot was immediately announced.