Commerce City, Colo. - It was a slow introduction back to the turf fields at Dick's Sporting Goods Park for a few players this week. Some may remain out of practice for a few more days, especially since the group will remain on turf next week in Honolulu.
Defender Hunter Freeman's MRI on his injured right ankle was negative, revealing only a deep bone bruise. He was in a temporary walking boot today but the training staff is hopeful he can resume training next week in Hawaii. He was injured last Saturday in the final scrimmage in California against Cal-Poly.
Midfielders Pablo Mastroeni and Jeff Larentowicz also picked up small knocks on California trip. Mastroeni did some running on Tuesday and Wednesday morning and participated in light drills Wednesday evening. Larentowicz, who had been with the U.S. National Team camp before joining the Rapids preseason, has been given a few days to recover his legs. He was one of two players to play all 90 minutes in last Friday's match versus San Jose.
Defender Drew Moor, who pulled his hamstring in the scrimmage against Ventura County Fusion on February 7, was back involved in drills during Wednesday's second training session.
Winger Kohei Yamada left Wednesday's morning session early with pain in his ribs and didn't practice in the evening.
Jamie Smith, Anthony Wallace, and Conor Casey all continue to rehabilitate injuries that ended their 2011 season early.
