MLB investigating Oliver Perez's injury

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Major League Baseball was awaiting medical records from the New York Mets regarding left-hander Oliver Perez's abrupt trip to the disabled list Saturday, a source familiar with the request told ESPNNewYork.com.

Perez officially was placed on the DL with right knee tendinitis. But given the circumstances -- with Perez declining to go to the minors -- MLB officials want to confirm an actual medical issue.

Perez arrived at Citi Field on Friday complaining of discomfort, according to the Mets. He was dispatched to the Hospital for Special Surgery for an MRI.

An MLB source noted it would be difficult to question a reputable medical provider's diagnosis, especially since a veteran pitcher almost assuredly has enough wear and tear to turn up something on an MRI. Still, the source added, if the Mets try to keep Perez on the DL for more than the minimum 15-day stay, an issue may arise -- since healthy players are not supposed to be hidden on the DL.

The Mets achieved their objective in getting Perez off the 25-man roster by placing him on the DL rather than demoting him. Perez was sent to Florida and eventually could pitch in minor league games, technically as a rehabbing pitcher.

Perez had the right to decline a minor league assignment based on his service time in the majors.

Adam Rubin covers the Mets for ESPNNewYork.com. You can follow him on Twitter.

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Adam Rubin

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Adam Rubin has covered the Mets since 2003. He's a graduate of Mepham High School on Long Island and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He joined ESPNNewYork after spending 10 years at the New York Daily News.
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