Phillies closer Contreras out 3-4 weeks

Phillies closer Jose Contreras has a grade one strain in his right elbow and will be sidelined three to four weeks.

General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. says the extent of the injury of the 39-year-old right-hander was discovered in an MRI in Philadelphia on Tuesday.

Contreras, who did not give up a run in eight appearances, is expected to begin rehab work in seven to 10 days. He started as closer in place of Brad Lidge, who is out with a strained right rotator cuff and hopes to return after the All-Star break.

Right-hander Ryan Madson took over, and has two saves in two chances already. Contreras had five saves in five opportunities before the injury.