Vizquel improves, may still need surgery

CLEVELAND (AP) -- Omar Vizquel hasn't given up on playing again for the Cleveland Indians this season.
The shortstop's surgically repaired left knee has responded to rest and rehab, giving Vizquel hope that he can avoid a second operation, which would end his year.
"It's taking a long time to heal," Vizquel said. "But it's getting a lot better. I'm trying to do everything I can not to have that second surgery."
Vizquel had arthroscopic surgery on June 12 to repair cartilage he tore while sliding into home plate at Arizona. While recovering from that procedure, a new tear -- unrelated to his previous injury -- was discovered in Vizquel's knee.
Indians doctors told Vizquel to stay off the knee, hoping it might improve enough that the 36-year-old could play before the season ends. That appears to be possible now.
"His knee has gotten stronger and he's got more mobility," trainer Paul Spicuzza said. "As of right now, there is no surgery, but that doesn't mean surgery is not an option."
Monitoring progress
The Indians will monitor Vizquel on a week-to-week basis, and will increase his activity. If all goes well and there are no setbacks, Indians manager Eric Wedge said the nine-time Gold Glove winner could be back in 2-to-4 weeks.
"I don't care if it's three weeks, four weeks or six weeks," Wedge said. "I want him back so this guy can contribute and our young guys can benefit by having Omar around."
Wedge said team doctors will advise Vizquel on what's best for him, but that ultimately it will be the three-time All-Star's call on whether he plays.
"He has earned that," Wedge said. "He deserves that. He has a tremendous feel for his body."
Vizquel, who had to go on the disabled list for the first time since 1994, said not being able to play has been excruciating.
"The toughest part is watching on TV," he said. "It's hard to listen even. I thought I was going to heal a lot quicker. But as long as I don't have any pain, it's improving. I have been running on it, jumping and I haven't had any more soreness, which is a positive thing."