James Loney out for 4-to-6 weeks

The Rays have received more bad news on the injury front, as James Loney was diagnosed with a broken finger and placed on the 15-day DL.

In today's @TB_Times, #Rays don't have many options with Loney out 4-6 weeks; Cabrera, Souza still day to day; more http://t.co/0OZAzxiNJ6

— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) May 26, 2015

Loney becomes the latest Tampa player to lose significant time to an injury, and may force the Rays to look outside the organization to fill their need. For the time being however, they'll turn to in-house options. Logan Forsythe is truly a middle infielder, but can fill the immediate need until a more longterm solution is brought in. Rene Rivera is the current backup, and even David DeJesus has offered his services. J.P. Arencibia is playing in AAA for the Durham Bulls and could be called up, but is having a hard time hitting minor league pitching.

As for external options, Marc Topkin suggests two recently DFA'd Giants players are potential solutions. Reigning NL Comeback Player of the Year Casey McGehee was optioned to make room for Matt Duffy, and there simply wasn't room for NLCS hero Travis Ishikawa on the active roster. Both could be acquired from SF, especially if the Rays took on some of the salary obligations.

Rays injury updates:

Matt Moore is scheduled to throw in an extended spring training on thursday, and is making steady progress towards making his MLB return. Barring any setbacks, Moore should make his way back to the Rays at some point in June. Desmond Jennings has yet to play in a game since April 25th, but is getting closer to baseball activities. Steven Souza is feeling better and is hoping to avoid the DL. He was seen earlier today testing out his wrist on the field, taking "dry swings" and catching throws on the infield.