July 2 -- IBANEZ STILL ON HOLD

BY SCOTT LAUBER

ATLANTA -- Although they continue to insist Raul Ibanez hasn't had any setbacks with his strained groin, the Phillies have once again pushed back the start of his minor-league rehab assignment. A short time ago, we received word that Ibanez will work out for a third straight day at Class AA Reading but will not play in a game. The Phillies are "hopeful," according to a team spokesman, that Ibanez will play in a minor-league game tomorrow night.

Clearly, then, Ibanez won't be ready for this weekend's series against the Mets. A return next week remains a possibility.

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Also, the Phillies announced that Brett Myers will begin a throwing program in two weeks after undergoing right hip surgery last month. Myers, though, is still a long shot to return to the Phillies before the end of the regular season.

More in a bit from Turner Field, a.k.a, The Ted.