MLB.com: Valdez was scrateched from start after being hit with line drive

MIAMI -- Tough luck keeps hovering over Ismael Valdez.

The right-hander began Spring Training with a throat virus, now his first scheduled regular-season start has been scratched because of a bruised lower right leg.

Valdez, slated to start on Saturday against the Nationals at Dolphins Stadium, was struck by a line drive while facing Minor Leaguers at Roger Dean Stadium on Monday. Feeling discomfort while running and pushing off the mound on Thursday, he will now rest the next couple of days.