Berkman contemplates not returning
Texas Rangers designated hitter Lance Berkman is considering the possibility of retiring because of his balky knees and injured hip, the Dallas Morning News reported.
Berkman is on the disabled list with hip inflammation and he also is unable to fully extend a surgically repaired knee. He was eligible to come off the DL on Monday but is unable to resume running.
"I've definitely thought about it," Berkman told the Morning News of not returning for the remainder of the season. "But I haven't reached any final decisions on it. Hopefully, I'll do the best that I can and help the team. It could also depend on what the team's needs are. This is an uncertain time of the year for everybody."
FoxSports.com reported that the 37-year-old Berkman was to meet with team officials on Wednesday to discuss his future and the possibility of forfeiting the remainder of his salary, which is approximately $4.4 million, this season.
In 68 games this year, Berkman is hitting .254 with six home runs and 34 RBIs. The Rangers signed Berkman to a one-year contract worth $10 million before the season.
