Baldelli gets new diagnosis

The ongoing health saga of Rocco Baldelli takes a twist for the better. It sounds like he might be able to treat his condition better after a new diagnosis.

In fact, a recent visit to the Cleveland Clinic led Baldelli's doctor there to conclude that his symptoms were more related to a set of diseases known as channelopathies than the more serious mitochondrial problems that Baldelli on Wednesday described as "the best diagnosis at the time."

"Basically, the situation has been clarified a little bit better because of further tests," Baldelli said by phone from Rhode Island. "It's positive news for my baseball career and my health."

Baldelli described channelopathy as "less severe and more treatable" than the mitochondrial disorder. According to MedicineNet.com, a channelopathy is a disease involving dysfunction of an ion channel for elements such as potassium, sodium, chloride and calcium.

Whatever the case, an improved Baldelli means an improved Tampa Bay Rays.