Langston Will Miss Scheduled Start

The disaster-a-day pace continued for the Angels, who learned that pitcher Mark Langston will miss Wednesday’s scheduled start against the Indians because of irritation in his right knee.

Langston was examined by Dr. Lewis Yocum, team physician, and a magnetic resonance imaging test showed normal wear and tear on the knee. Langston was unavailable for comment before Monday night’s game but was seen limping noticeably on a short walk from the trainer’s room to players’ lounge.

This is the third time this season Langston (6-5) has injured his right leg--the previous two problems sent him to the disabled list. Langston underwent surgery to remove a partial cartilage tear in early May and suffered a strained upper calf muscle in mid-July.

Jason Grimsley would be the leading candidate to replace Langston, but a roster spot will open up by then if, as expected, Jim Abbott reports to triple-A Vancouver. Either Pep Harris (9-3 at Vancouver) or Shad Williams (5-1) would likely be promoted.

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Abbott, who has until Wednesday afternoon to accept or decline his demotion to Vancouver--or become a free agent--met with his agent, Scott Boras, Monday afternoon but had not informed the Angels of his decision as of Monday night.

But a source said Abbott is leaning toward reporting to Vancouver and would likely tell the team today.

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Interim Manager John McNamara, suffering from a strained calf muscle, managed his second consecutive game from his clubhouse office, via walkie-talkie, but expects to return to the bench today. . . . Angel reliever Chuck McElroy has traveled to Texas to be with his wife, who is delivering the couple’s second child this week. McElroy will join the team in Boston Friday.