July 31 -- FELIZ HAS BULGING DISC

WASHINGTON -- We take a break from trade-deadline madness to bring you this update on Pedro Feliz:

After a battery of tests, Feliz was diagnosed today with a bulging disc in his back. Feliz, who was placed on the disabled list Tuesday, won't take part in baseball-related activities until next week. Feliz underwent an MRI exam on his back Wednesday and was seen by team physician Dr. Michael Ciccotti. He was examined today by back specialist Dr. Todd Albert and had an epidural injection at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.

Feliz began feeling pain during a late June series in Texas. He is eligible to be activated from the disabled list before an Aug. 9 game against the Pirates at the Bank, although it appears he may not be ready by then. Feliz, who signed a two-year, $8.5 million contract in January, is batting .256 with 12 homers and 41 RBIs. He is 1-for-21 with nine strikeouts since the All-Star break.