masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe MRA on Tsuyoshi Wada’s left elbow today revealed “a problem” with the ligament, according to manager Buck Showalter.

Showalter didn’t offer a specific diagnosis, but he said the test revealed damage that didn’t show up during Wada’s physical before the Japanese left-hander signed a two-year, $8.14 million contract.

“We were hoping for a little bit better news,” Showalter said.

Showalter said Wada and the Orioles are contemplating the next direction to take.

Wada was held back in…The MRA on Tsuyoshi Wada’s left elbow today revealed “a problem” with the ligament, according to manager Buck Showalter.

Showalter didn’t offer a specific diagnosis, but he said the test revealed damage that didn’t show up during Wada’s physical before the Japanese left-hander signed a two-year, $8.14 million contract.

“We were hoping for a little bit better news,” Showalter said.

Showalter said Wada and the Orioles are contemplating the next direction to take.

Wada was held back in spring training because of inflammation in the elbow. He made two starts in extended spring training and one with Triple-A Norfolk on an injury-rehab assignment. He gave up six runs in 2 2/3 innings Thursday and complained of neck stiffness.

The elbow is a much more serious issue.

“Wada has an elbow issue, problems with the ligament, the MRA showed,” Showalter said. “We’ll contemplate, along with him, what the next direction (is) to take, but it showed some damage in there with the ligament that didn’t show up in the physical he took when he signed.

“I’m trying to be as frank with you without stepping into something I think he deserves to address. We were hoping for a little better news about when we might get him back, but it wasn’t all bad. But it is still something he’s going to have to, along with our doctors, will give their opinion on. I think he and his people are still gathering on what direction to go in.”