Tribe outfielders becoming endangered species

      MINNEAPOLIS:  With Travis Buck having been hit in the head with a pitch and Michael Brantley still trying to shake off the effects of an intestinal problem, manager Manny Acta is quickly running out of outfielders.

   Grady Sizemore and Shin-Soo Choo already are on the disabled list, so Acta had to put utility infielder Luis Valbuena in left this afternoon. Buck was examined by a doctor here Tuesday night and has no symptoms of a concussion. Brantley seemed to be improving late Tuesday night but Acta said he was worse today.

“”Michael is in pretty bad shape,’’ manager Manny Acta said.  ""He’s still not able to eat and process food.

""I believe the first night, the doctor called it heat exhaustion. Michael looked a lot better after the game last night, but when he came in today, he still had some issues.’’

Thursday's day off is coming at an ideal time for Acta. By Friday, maybe Buck and Brantley, or both, will be able to return to the lineup

“”I think not playing today and the day off will really help,’’ Acta said. “”I think by Friday, at least Michael will be able to play.’’

If neither can play, the Tribe might send an infielder back to Columbus (Valbuena) and recall an outfielder.

“”That’s possible,’’ Acta said.

  David Huff’s next start is Saturday against the White Sox. Fausto Carmona wait and pitch against the Angels.

“”We’ll give Fausto a couple of more days, so he can face the Angels,’’ Acta said. “”He’s had trouble against the White Sox.’’

In two starts against Chicago this year, Carmona has given up 18 runs in eight innings.