IN BRIEF : Backman Learns Severity of Injury

MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota Twins second baseman Wally Backman has learned that his shoulder injury is more serious than initially believed.

Backman had X-rays and was examined by Boston team physician Arthur Pappas before Tuesday night’s game. Pappas discovered a sprained shoulder ligament that has hindered Backman’s batting.

Further examination of Backman’s shoulder was planned today by Twins team physician Harvey O’Phelan. “He’ll get a more detailed study from Harvey,” Twins trainer Dick Martin said. “It should be a couple of days or maybe a little longer before he can play.”

Backman is 0 for 14 since suffering the injury diving for a ball on April 29 and hasn’t been able to take a full swing.

“It should have responded more than it has, which means the injury is more severe than first diagnosed,” Martin said.