Dr. Scald Prescribes Rest and Bruce Responds.

Jay Bruce would never ask for a day off. He expects to play every day.

 Yet, Dusty Baker, who was knicknamed Dr. Scald by his old teammate Rick Monday, gave his struggling young star Monday off.

"It's crazy. I got antsy but mentally I feel it was good," Bruce said.

Baker saw the signs, the lack of focus, the impatience of the 22-year old slugger.



"It was a day off at the ballpark," Baker said. "He got to see the other guys hit. A day off away from the park, you get your rest but being around the other guys without the pressure helps. As long as the guy that replaces you does the job, its a good day off."



Bruce was recalled from Louisville a year ago today. He celebrated the anniversary with his 13th and 14th home runs and a triple, driving in four runs. His average rose to .241.

"I appreciate the day off," Bruce said. "We can go on the road with momentum. I'm excited about this team."



By Jerry Dowling